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SPONSORS IN THE RCIA

St Theresa's community wishes to share its tradition, its life, its values, its prayer and its apostolic work with those who have expressed a desire to become Catholic. One way of sharing these gifts is to become part of the RCIA process as a sponsor.  No special knowledge is needed, just your willingness to be a friend.

Sponsoring in the R.C.I.A.

No matter what our vocation, the Church calls all of us as Catholics to share its tradition, its prayer, and its apostolic work with those who have expressed a desire to become Catholic. Catechumens and Candidates learn what being a Catholic is all about from many people; the clergy, the initiation ministers, the parish community, and especially from their sponsors. A sponsor is a fully initiated Catholic, in good standing with the Church, who represents the St. Theresa's community. Most importantly, a sponsor is called to be a companion and offer support to their Candidate while the Holy Spirit does the work!

What if I don't know my faith well enough to be a sponsor?

Sponsors are not catechists and are not asked to assume responsibility for "teaching." Conversion is the work of the Holy Spirit. It's not at all bad to show catechumens and candidates that a mature Catholic Christian need not have all the answers. After all, we are all on a faith journey to know and serve Jesus Christ more completely.

Does it take a lot of time to be a sponsor?

Actually, it takes very little additional time. A sponsor is asked to come to the 9:45  Mass with their candidate. After Mass, the sponsors and RCIA Team gather with the catechumens and candidates for a short scripture sharing and reflection session. During the week, a sponsor helps the candidate get involved in one or more of the many parish activities. A sponsor can introduce the candidate to the people in the community by asking them to come along when they serve in their various ministries or attend a parish function.

What's in it for the sponsor?

RCIA sponsors tell us that this experience helped them love Jesus Christ more deeply and appreciate the gift of their faith. many of us take our faith for granted until we watch someone who has never been baptized find their faith and love of Christ. Sponsoring may be that great opportunity to review your own beliefs and the ways in which you put those beliefs into action. It may be one of the best things you (and your family) do to help become a better Catholic.