The Catholic Church requires that all those who assume the responsibilities and obligations of sponsorship for the Sacrament of Baptism and Confirmation practice their religion faithfully and are exemplary in their conduct as members of the Roman Catholic Church. Consequently, letters ofapproval will be issued only to persons able to make the following declarations and agreements:

• Sponsor/Godparent must be at least 16 years of age.
• Sponsor/Godparent must be Catholic and have Received the three Sacraments of Initiation: Baptism, Confirmation and First Communion.
• Sponsor/Godparent must lead a life "in harmony with the faith", Registered and participating member of a parish, attending Mass regularly and if married, must be in a valid Catholic marriage.
• Sponsor/Godparent can not be the father or mother of the one to be confirmed.
• Realize a Sponsor/Godparent role is a great responsibility before God and the Church and promise to give support and guide the person being baptised with prayers, and most especially the Catholic example in daily life.

How Should You Choose a Godparent or Confirmation Sponsor?
Choosing these important life long roles should never be a passive or quick decision based on which friend or relative happens to be available that Sunday, but rather it is choosing someone to play an active role throughout your child’s lifetime. Prayer is the first step as you start your search. Asking the Lord who His choice of Godparent or Sponsor, or asking Him to make it apparent to your own heart who will take on the role well.

How to Choose? This is not an easy task, but it is crucial to ensure the person you choose will take on the role and not neglect it. Carefully consider how this person has lived his/her own life. Have they sought to have a deeper relationship with the Lord, even in their own imperfections and flaws? Have they handled trials and stormy seasons in a godly manner? Are they honest, trustworthy, and do they have an intentional heart? Lastly, would you trust your child to learn and grow from their influence?

Who is Eligible? Not just anyone can be a Godparent or a Confirmation Sponsor. There is specific criteria that the Catholic Church requires candidates to meet in order to qualify. (These are found on the  Godparent/Eligibility Form on opposite page.)
Meeting with Priest. Once a Godparent/Sponsor is selected, the next important step is for you as parents (and often Godparents/Sponsors) to meet in person with your Priest. He will discuss this sacred role by answering your questions and asking you questions to be sure there is a full understanding of the importance of the promises that will be made on behalf of the recipient. You may even attend a pre-Baptism course if one is available.

Lifetime Roles. Godparents chosen for Baptism make a pledge on behalf of the child to renounce Satan, to believe in God and the Church, and to guide the child into a life of faith and devotion. The Sacrament of Confirmation Sponsors pledge to help guide them into adulthood, and to give them the skills needed to face life’s challenges and to help strengthen their faith in God and the church. By taking this pledge, they are accepting the responsibility of nurturing them in the Catholic Faith and be a responsible role model for them.

The role of a Godparent or Sponsor is to encourage a child to know, love, and serve God well. Being purposeful in choosing noble and trustworthy candidates, is not something to be taken lightly, but becomes one of the greatest gifts that can be given to a child. (Online sources include Crosswalk.com, ScriptureCatholic.com, BuildFaith.org)