Sponsor Retreat
This retreat is split into three parts. In order to complete the retreat, you will need to complete all three parts fully and completely. Follow the instructions below to complete Part 1, then proceed to Part 2.
Opening
Prayer
As with anything, let's begin in prayer! Make sure you're in an environment that allows you to reflect with minimal distractions. Then, click the video thumbnail and reflect on the lyrics of the song, asking the Holy Spirit to guide you as you guide your candidate in his/her journey toward a life-long Catholic lifestyle.
Pray:
Breathe into me, Holy Spirit, that my thoughts may all be holy.
Move in me, Holy Spirit, that my work, too, may be holy.
Attract my heart, Holy Spirit, that I may love only what is holy.
Strengthen me, Holy Spirit, that I may defend all that is holy.
Protect me, Holy Spirit, that I may always be holy.
Amen.
The Role of a Sponsor
Read through the slides, then respond to the reflection questions below. Click the arrow to move to the next slide.
Why does the Church require a sponsor for someone to be confirmed?
On a technical side, the sponsor presents the candidate to the bishop, testifies that the candidate desires to fully enter the Catholic Church, and witnesses the sacrament actually taking place during the ceremony.
On a more spiritual side, the sponsor keeps the candidate accountable during the preparation process and after the Confirmation has taken place. It is difficult to stand by the beliefs and teachings of our faith if we do not have a role model, an example, to turn to when it gets hard; a sponsor helps the candidate stay true to the faith for the rest of their life.
Review Part 1
Please review this section to make sure you have completed it fully, and make sure to click "Submit" for the reflection questions if you haven't already. After reviewing Part 1, you may move on to Part 2 by clicking the button below.
*DO NOT* move on to Part 2 if you have not submitted your reflection question responses for Part 1!