The Sacraments

What is the role of a sponsor?

A sponsor or godparent assists an adult in his or her Christian Initiation, or in the case of an infant, presents a child for baptism together with the parents. The sponsor helps the baptized lead a Catholic life and fulfill faithfully the obligations connected with it. (Canon 872)

Are there any qualifications to assume the role of sponsor?

Since the sponsor is to model Catholic life, Church Law (Canon 874) specifies that a sponsor:

• Must be chosen by the one to be baptized, the parents, or in their absence, the pastor

• Must be at least 16 years old (the pastor may make an exception to this for a just cause)

• Must be a Catholic who has received the Sacraments of Holy Eucharist and Confirmation

• Must lead a life that is in harmony with the Catholic Faith

• If married, must be in a union recognized as valid by the Church

• May not be the parent of the one to be baptized or confirmed

How many sponsors (godparents) may be designated?

One sponsor of either sex is required for baptism but two sponsors, one of each sex is permitted and is the usual custom. (Canon 873) One may not designate two sponsors of the same sex at baptism. At Confirmation, the candidate chooses only one sponsor, male or female.

May a non-Catholic be a sponsor?

A baptized person who belongs to a non-Catholic ecclesial community may not be a sponsor but may be admitted as a “Christian Witness” along with the Catholic sponsor. (See Canon 874) A non-Christian may not be a sponsor “Christian Witness.”

May the baptism sponsor also be the Confirmation sponsor for the same person?

Yes, in fact, this arrangement is “desirable” according to Canon 893.

What is a Certificate or Letter of Eligibility?

This is a statement that verifies that one meets the qualifications to assume the role of sponsor. It is obtained from the parish where the sponsor worships regularly and is submitted to the parish where the baptism is celebrated.