Alright, friends, here’s the gist of Patrick Madrid’s conversation with Ken from Wisconsin about Confirmation sponsors: do they really need to be in good standing with the Church?

What’s the Job of a Sponsor Anyway?

Patrick says to think of a Confirmation sponsor (or a godparent) as a spiritual guide. They’re supposed to help the person they’re sponsoring grow closer to Jesus and the Church. But if a sponsor isn’t living their own faith: like, say, skipping Mass or being lax about Church teachings, then… how can they guide anyone else? 

As Patrick explained, the Church has basic rules for sponsors. Here’s a quick checklist:

-Must be baptized and confirmed in the Catholic Church.

-Should be living their faith (like, actually going to Mass on Sundays).

-If married, they must be married in the Church.

-Can’t be the parent of the person being baptized/confirmed.

Ken’s Situation 

Ken shared a tricky situation: one of his OCIA (Order of Christian Initiation for Adults) students picked her uncle as her sponsor. Sounds fine, right? Well, turns out the uncle doesn’t really go to Mass. Uh-oh.

Patrick was super thoughtful here. He pointed out that this isn’t just about checking a box. Being a sponsor isn’t a ceremonial role; it’s a real responsibility! A sponsor is meant to guide someone to heaven, not just wave from the pews on Easter Vigil. If this uncle isn’t practicing his faith, then... what exactly is he "sponsoring"? 

The Gentle Fix: What Would Patrick Do?

Patrick encouraged Ken to handle this with love and respect: no finger-wagging or guilt trips here. 

Educate gently: Ken can explain the importance of a sponsor’s role during class, so it doesn’t feel like he’s calling out Uncle Mass-Skipper directly.

Encourage a comeback: Patrick explains that maybe the uncle just doesn’t realize how serious this role is. It could even inspire him to start going to Mass again. Imagine: he helps his niece AND rekindles his own faith. That’s a win-win! 

What We Can Take Away From This?

Sponsors matter! They should be role models in faith, not just placeholders.

Sometimes people need a loving nudge to take their faith seriously.

God can use situations like this to bring people back to Him. Never underestimate His grace! 

So, moral of the story? If you’re ever asked to be a sponsor, don’t just say yes for the photo-op. Live the role. Go to Mass, pray, grow in your faith, and help guide someone else toward Christ.