We have been discussing who Sponsors or Godparents are, and their role in the life of the baptized. It is important to realize that, together with the biological or adopted parents of the baptized, they are to journey spiritually with the child through an exemplary life of faith and establish a special relationship with him or her.
Not everyone qualifies to be a Sponsor. Let us look at a few of the criteria that qualifies a person to be one according to the Catholic Church.
What qualifies or disqualifies one to be a Sponsor/Godparent
To be accepted to be a Sponsor/Godparent, one must:
1. “be appointed by the candidate for baptism (if he is matured enough), or by the parents or whoever stands in their place, or failing these, by the parish priest or the minister; to be appointed the person must be suitable for this role and have the intention of fulfilling it;” (Canon 874.1.1)
2. “be not less than sixteen years of age, unless a different age has been stipulated by the diocesan Bishop, or unless the parish priest or the minister considers that there is a just reason for an exception to be made;” (Canon 874.1.2)
3. “be a catholic who has been confirmed and has received the blessed Eucharist, and who lives a life of faith which befits the role to be undertaken;” (Canon 874.1.3)
4. “not labour under a canonical penalty, whether imposed or declared;” (Canon 874.1.4)
5. “not be the father, mother (be it biological or adoptive) or spouse of the person to be baptised.” (Canon 874.1.5)
6. Not be a public sinner (eg. prostitution etc)
~ How can one prepare for those serious task?
~ In what practical ways can a sponsor be involved in the life of the baptized?
Let’s meet next Monday 30/01/17. Don’t worry so much about January. It will soon end.
God bless you.
Padre Antonio
(WhatsApp number: +233 541 859198)
(You may whatsapp your questions and contributions for further clarifications)
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