Role of sponsor in RC confirmation

[shivvy]

What is the role of the sponsor in a Catholic confirmation ceremony?
What are the 'duties' of the sponsor in religious terms, and are there any modern day practices such as gift giving/receiving which are commonly observed?
Thanks

[SRH]

Bit like being a Godparent - you are supposed to be there for the confirmant as a sprititual rolemodel. My dad was mine - and as I went to church with him as a kid anyway , it didn't change much!

In reality, it is someone the person being confirmed can see as someone to look up to and be there for them if they need them.

You are supposed to help them spiritually - pray for them and take time to practise your faith together (going to church, discussing God and your faith etc).

Giving them a gift is not a prerequesite but but would be appreciated, I'm sure! But the most important thing is to let them know they have someone as well as their parents to turn to if they ever need help in the years to come.

[shivvy]

Thanks SRH - very useful.