Guidelines for Choosing a Sponsor

“The sponsor is selected by the candidate” and should meet the requirements of baptismal sponsors as stated in the Code of Canon Law #874.

Therefore, a sponsor:

• Must be at least sixteen years old, unless another age is set by the bishop of the diocese or an exception, for just reason, is made by the pastor.
• Must be a Catholic who has received all three sacraments of initiation and leads a life in harmony with the Catholic faith.
• Must not be bound by any penalty of the Church. (i.e. irregular marriage)
• Must not be the parent of the person to be confirmed. (A parent may, however, for good reason, serve as presenter of the candidate for the Sacrament of Confirmation).
• “It is desirable that the one who undertook the role of sponsor at baptism be the sponsor for Confirmation. Distance and other factors may preclude this recommendation.” (Canon 893). If the sponsor cannot be present a proxy may be designated. The proxy must have the same qualifications as the sponsor. There is no specification with regard to the sex of the sponsor. It is important, however, that the candidate be able to identify with the sponsor in terms of Christian living.
• While Canon Law provides the basic requirements, the path to a meaningful sponsor-candidate relationship involves several other factors. A sponsor should:
  • Be a person of lived faith and a role model for the candidate
  • Be available to spend time with the candidate during the preparation process and to take part in the celebration of the sacrament
  • Be a person with whom the candidate has a comfortable and ongoing relationship
  • Be available to continue to support the candidate to fulfill their baptismal promises faithfully after reception of the sacrament

If the sponsor you choose does not attend Prince of Peace Parish, a letter from their parish must be obtained stating that the sponsor is in good standing and is practicing the Faith. The letter should be sent to Prince of Peace Catholic Church, 135 S. Milwaukee Avenue, Lake Villa, IL  60046-8550.