RCIA: Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults The Role of the Sponsor

RCIA: Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults

The Role of the Sponsor

Role of the Sponsor

A sponsor is not:A therapistA problem solverA theologian

A sponsor is:A guideA mentorA witnessA friend

Qualities of a Sponsor

Canonical:At least 16 years old

Fully initiated in the Catholic Church

Practicing and participating member of the community

Qualities of a Sponsor

Listens with respectsDoes not pry

Does not try to fix problems

Respects confidentiality

Person of a faith and prayer

Able to establish or deepen a relationship

Duties of a Sponsor

Offer a welcoming spirit

Share Catholic traditions

Listen

Share life and faith

Introduce Ministry

Offer friendship

Witness

Offer a Welcoming Spirit

Invite candidate to sit with you at mass

Call your candidate by name

Show your candidate around the parish

Tour of church

Different buildings and what they are used for

Share Catholic Traditions

Prayers

Memories of growing up Catholic or your journey through the RCIA process

How tos:Sign of the cross

Receive Eucharist

Go to reconciliation

Listen

Offer support

Watch their body language

Do not offer advice

Maintain confidentiality

Share Life and Faith

Be present at the sessions

Invite to parish activities

Meet outside the sessions for coffee or dessert

Contact at least once a week outside the regular session

Introduce Ministry/Offer Friendship

Invite to participate in or follow along in your ministry

Do not force a relationship

Let team know if relationship is not working

Take the initiative in reaching out

Witness

Ask how they are growing in the processHelp in preparation for the RitesAffirm changes you see in themAttend all rehearsals and days of reflectionHelp candidate & team discern readiness to proceed to the next phase of process

On a final note:

Pray!!!!!