S2 E4: Why Sponsors Matter (with Christopher Wesley)
The Youth Ministry Mindset Podcast
Summary: In this episode, hosts Jordan Biere, Jason Kidd, and Annie Grandell welcome Christopher Wesley, founder of Marathon Youth Ministry and author of Rebuilding Confirmation, for a compelling conversation on the often-overlooked role of sponsors in the Confirmation process. Instead of viewing sponsors as a checkbox or afterthought, Christopher challenges us to think of them as mentors in discipleship—people who can walk alongside teens in a meaningful way. The episode invites ministry leaders to reconsider traditional practices and reimagine how to form sponsors and integrate them intentionally into the journey of Confirmation. Notable Quotes: * “Invest in a community where people can find sponsors or just great role models to nurture the faith beyond Confirmation” -Christopher Wesley (42:25) * “You can’t force a relationship, but you can set the environment for it.” -Jordan Biere (32:18) * Special Guest: * Christopher Wesley – Catholic author and ministry consultant, best known for Rebuilding Confirmation, which encourages parish leaders to rethink outdated models and focus on relational ministry. * References & Resources: * Rebuilding Confirmation: Because We Need More Than Another Graduation by Christopher Wesley * Catechism of the Catholic Church 1311, 1255 * Code of Canon Law, Canons 892-893 * Pope Francis, Christus Vivit, Paragraph 242 Stay Connected: * Find Christopher Wesley at: marathonyouthministry.com * Check us out: youthministrymindset.com * Get your FREE Confirmation Toolkit from Alpha Youth and YDisciple: confirmationtoolkit.com * * Learn more about Alpha: alphausa.org/youth/catholic * Learn more about YDisciple: ydisciple.com