Very excited... and nervous!

[MedStudent]

Just recently I was asked by one of my residents in my university dorm (I’m a resident assistant) to be her sponsor for the sacrament of Confirmation (her family moved around a lot during the time when most of her peers were going through the process and she was disappointed to discover that many of them were only doing it because their parents wanted them to). I was thrilled at both the fact that she has decided to continue on her journey in faith and that she would choose me to help her. As excited as I am, I also find myself to be extremely nervous as to whether I would be the right sponsor for her. It seems like only yesterday that I was confirmed (even though it was almost six years ago) and I feel that I still have so much to learn about the faith. Does anyone have any advice on how I can prepare for this?

 

[Trishie]

It appears to me that you are the perfect person!
You have sincerity, enthusiasm, humility, and willingness to learn.
So don’t doubt!
You care about the faith and about the person who has asked you to be sponsor.

To prepare? Obviously you are already a good example, and kindly towards the candidate who has invited you to be sponsor!
Perhaps, amid your busy studies and work, you can find time to read at some times during your busy weeks, to go online to Catechism of the Catholic Church Simplified

catholicity.com/catechism/

The Catechism of the Catholic Church is available in full online, but the link to the Catechism simplified might better suit your limited time.

And of course, the bible is the best of sources! (It also is available online)

God bless you and the person whom you sponsor for the Sacrament of Confirmation.

 

[Scoobyshme]

Just recently I was asked by one of my residents in my university dorm (I’m a resident assistant) to be her sponsor for the sacrament of Confirmation (her family moved around a lot during the time when most of her peers were going through the process and she was disappointed to discover that many of them were only doing it because their parents wanted them to). I was thrilled at both the fact that she has decided to continue on her journey in faith and that she would choose me to help her. As excited as I am, I also find myself to be extremely nervous as to whether I would be the right sponsor for her. It seems like only yesterday that I was confirmed (even though it was almost six years ago) and I feel that I still have so much to learn about the faith. Does anyone have any advice on how I can prepare for this?

As Yogi Berra says, “Ain’t nuttin’ to it.” (Or, at least that’s what I picture he would say. LOL)

I’ve sponsored several people before, usually people I didn’t know, through RCIA. They do all the real work. You just need to stand tall and do your part. Answer any questions they may have (you’re in the right place to find answers if you don’t know 'em.) and stand behind them when they get Confirmed. And comfort them if they get nervous, too. Tell 'em it’s a cakewalk.

 

[Barbkw]

This is my second year being a sponsor. The teacher instructs the class, not the sponsors. The course material is given to the Catechumens in a notebook, with more handouts given during class, and they each receive a textbook.

It’s been a great learning experience for me and it’s been wonderful as well to watch fellow Catholics receive the grace of God through the rites of the Sacraments.

You’ll do wonderful.

 

[TCostello]

What an honor to be asked, congratulations! You will be her supporter through the process and if something comes up that you are unsure of, please take time to do the research and give sound advice. Your catechism is always a great resource in times of uncertainty. You’ll be a great sponsor, God bless you and keep you.