Choosing a Confirmation Sponsor and Name

A Sponsor is one who participates in the Candidate's preparation by "walking with him/her" on a deep level. A sponsor may always come to class, but this is not required. A Sponsor may come to the Confirmation Retreat, but is not required to do so. The Sponsor would assume the responsibility of praying for the candidate, talking things over with the candidate – generally supporting him/her at this time. It is strongly encouraged that the Sponsor participate as much as possible in the required service projects that the teen does. The Sponsor will stand with the candidate during the Rite of Enrollment, the Confirmation Rehearsal and at the Confirmation itself. If a Sponsor cannot attend one of those dates, a parent may substitute. If a candidate needs a Sponsor, we on the Confirmation Team are happy to be Sponsors.

Choosing a Sponsor deserves thought and prayer. A Sponsor should be chosen as soon as possible. In order that we may communicate with the Sponsors, there is a Sponsor Form that will be handed out during the first class meeting.

What are the qualifications?

The Sponsor must be 17 years old or older.
The Sponsor must be a confirmed, practicing Catholic.
Married Sponsors must have been married in the Catholic Church.
The Sponsor must be the choice of the Candidate.
The Sponsor may not be the Candidate's parent.

Candidates and their Sponsors are expected to receive the Sacrament of Penance during the two weeks preceding the Confirmation Mass. Confirmation (like Matrimony, Holy Orders and Eucharist) is a Sacrament of the Living, i.e., must be received by a person in the state of grace.

Who would make a good sponsor?

Godparents are appropriate; so are older siblings. It is important the the Sponsor be someone with whom the candidate feels able to discuss his/her faith and the challenges and choices that faith brings. They should be able to trust their Sponsor with their hopes, dreams, doubts and fears.

The Confirmation Name

The Candidates will be given the opportunity to be confirmed in the name given at Baptism or in an additional Saint's name.

Service Policy

The Confirmation and Youth Group Team have adopted this policy. It is a requirement for both groups.

In practicing giving our tie and talen to others we are following Jesus who came to serve and asked His followers to do the same.

Teens will be required to offer service in two areas: in the Parish and outside the parish. Lists of opportunities will be provided. Approved alternate suggestions will be accepted. A signed form, plus a paragraph (at least) "What you got out of this Service Experience" will be necessary for each service performed. The expectation in the Diocese of Oakland is a minimum of 20 hours of service.