Candidates tend to question Church authority and belief systems as they begin to connect their lived reality with the Catholic Tradition. A strong relationship with the sponsor can provide for the candidate to question their faith in a safe and supportive environment. Essentially, the sponsor mentors the candidate by supporting, listening, and challenging the candidate’s faith. A sponsor guides the candidate and gives firsthand experience of Catholic living outside of his/her immediate family.

A Confirmation sponsor is more than a ceremonial role. Sponsors serve as mentors for the candidate to be confirmed. During this preparation period, a relationship of trust develops and sustains the young person at a time when so much can seem uncertain. The sponsor helps the candidate grow in knowledge, attitudes, and practices essential to being a member of the Catholic Church. He/she cannot be a parent; however, the sponsor can be a grandparent/God parent/family friend. This should be someone the candidate trusts in seeking out faith advice and direction.