RCIA: Sponsors | (Sponsor Brochure: download) |
When was the last time someone asked you...
- How do you cope with suffering?
- Is it okay to doubt?
- Why do you go to Church?
The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults is about relationships; developing a relationship with God and his Church.
Sponsors are the Church in action.
Sponsors provide the positive attitude and joy needed for new members to come forward and embark on a faith journey.
Sponsors are parishioners.
Sponsors are people who believe in God and sometimes doubt as well.
Sponsors are people who wish to give to God a little something in gratitude for the many blessings they have received.
Sponsors are people who don't have lots of extra time but are willing to make time so another person can grow in faith.
Sponsors are people like you!
Becoming An RCIA Sponsor
What it means to be a Sponsor
The community cannot "reach out" to an individual easily. Sponsors extend, in a personal way, the support of the community.
Be a good friend – do not force your faith on the individual.
Share your faith; do not be afraid to tell about your experiences – good and bad!
Be sensitive to their lack of knowledge about the Christian religion in general, the Catholic faith, and the various rituals we use. People have a varied background.
Ultimately, your faith, your love, your respect for others will serve you best.
Becoming and being Catholic is a continuing process of conversion; of changing attitudes, values, and priorities.
Be a companion; someone who they can trust; someone they can talk to.
What can a Sponsor expect?
Enjoyment, learning, making new friends, renewal of their faith, and a strong
experience of Church community.
What qualities are most needed to be a sponsor?
- Openness
- Good attitude
- Friendly outreach to others
- Patient
- Listens well
- Attends Church
- Prays
- Reliable
- Loves the Lord
Time Commitment
Tuesdays 7:00 – 8:45 pm during the school year (Sept.- May)
Sponsors are not required to attend every RCIA class, but many find the class a time to explore and grow in understanding of the faith.
Also, the sharing of the group at tables enriches the relationship one comes to experience as part of the RCIA "community". This is an integral part of the RCIA process.
Some couples have chosen to sponsor one candidate/catechumen, or to sponsor a couple who are candidates in RCIA.
If interested contact RCIA Director, Susan Bellotti at 882-2109 or sbellotti@stpacc.org.