Confirmation Sponsor Form

For Use By Candidates For Confirmation

The Purpose Of A Sponsor

A Confirmation Sponsor is an important person who can be an example of how to live your Catholic faith daily. From the earliest days of the Church, those seeking to become fully initiated where supported by specific people from the community.

When you received the Sacrament of Baptism, your parents and Godparents (a sponsor for Baptism) promised to raise you in the Catholic faith. With the Sacrament of Confirmation, you speak for yourself and are supported by a sponsor mature enough to undertake this sacred responsibility. They will stand with you as you are presented to the bishop for the Sacrament of Confirmation.

Choosing Your Confirmation Sponsor

The Code of Canon Law looks to emphasize the unity between Baptism and Confirmation stating "it is appropriate that [the sponsor] be one of the Baptismal Godparents" (CCC1311). However, this is often not possible or practical. They should be someone you are comfortable talking to, not only willing to listen but speak about their own faith, beliefs and life experiences. This should be someone trusted by you, a significant part of your life now and in the future.  This should be someone who is active in their church and participates in Sunday Mass on a regular basis. This is not just a token gesture and should be carefully considered. The purpose of the relationship between you and your sponsor is to lead you into a deeper relationship with Jesus.

The below form must be completed by the Candidate for Confirmation since they are the person who has the final decision on this selection.

Sponsor Requirements

Requirements for Confirmation Sponsors are rooted in the Code of Canon Law. In addition to regional and parish guidelines, these include:

• A fully initiated member of the Catholic Church
• Has received the Sacrament of Baptism
• Has received their First Holy Communion
• Has received the Sacrament of Confirmation
• If in a married state, married in the Catholic Church
• An active, participating, registered member of a Catholic Church
• Leads a life of faith with weekly attendance at and participation in Sunday Mass
• At least 16 years of age (18+ recommended)
• Not a parent or step-parent
• Attend in-person Confirmation Practice & Mass
• If in the Youth Religious Education Program, complete Chosen Sponsor materials.
  

Documentation confirming that the Sponsor is qualified to serve in this sacred role is required:

• A letter from their home parish certifying they are a practicing member of the Catholic faith in good standing.
• This letter must include the church's seal and signature of the Pastor or his representative.
• A copy of the Sponsor's Certificate of Confirmation (and Marriage in the Catholic Church if applicable) must be submitted.
• If Sponsor is unable to locate or have certificates re-printed, and evidence shows all options has been exhausted, a Sponsor Affidavit may be completed. Contact the Parish Office for details.
• Documentation must be received by St. Edward Catholic Church no later than January.