Sponsors

Sponsors are the primary catechists for catechumens and candidates. Sponsors are like masters in an apprenticeship relationship, passing along the living tradition of the Church. This does not mean that they need to know everything or be the perfect Catholic. Rather, a sponsor is someone who gives life to what a Catholic is, does, and says. They also serve as a bridge between the community and the catechumens and candidates, much as Barnabas paved the way for Paul's inclusion among the Christian community (Acts 9:27). Each sponsor is expected to form a relationship with a catechumen or candidate, remaining with them not only through all parts of their journey of conversion guided by the RCIA, but ideally as a lifelong partner in ongoing and mutual faith development. Representing the Church as a witness, companion, and model is a great responsibility, but one that most sponsors find deeply and personally rewarding, in addition to often learning a great deal about their own faith. Sponsors pray for and with, listen to, and gently guide catechumens and candidates. Sponsors should be active members of the St. Thomas More community and need not have any relationship with the catechumen or candidate before this time, however, many sponsors are those people who initially brought a catechumen or candidate to the Church. Guidance for those interested in becoming a sponsor is provided by the Director of the Catechumenate, Andrew Casad. Sponsors will be paired up with catechumens and candidates as needed.