Prior to the Rite of Acceptance, a Catechumen will pick one or two Godparent(s) who will accompany the Catechumen through the R.C.I.A. process. A candidate will pick a sponsor. This Godparent or sponsor will be a role model for the Catechumen/ candidate, will accompany the Catechumen on the date of Election, be present at the celebration of the Sacraments, set a good example of the Christine life, be a witness and help guide them in the process. This person must a practicing Catholic which means he or she must be registered at a Catholic Church, must have been baptized and received the Sacraments of Holy Communion and Confirmation and must be at least 15 years of age.

There are mandatory dates that the Godparent/Sponsor must be present at Mass beginning with the Rite of Acceptance, Rite of Election (both at church and then the Cathedral), Sundays in Lent, Holy Thursday and Holy Saturday (all day and night).