The Young Man Who Chose Me as His Sponsor Taught Me a Lesson I Didn't Expect
A simple request, a trip to confession, and a confirmation day conversation became a powerful reminder that young men are always watching—and learning from the examples around them.
Several months ago a young man from our parish approached me and asked if I would be willing to serve as his sponsor. I was both honored and surprised by the request. His parents arranged a dinner for my wife and me, giving Joseph an opportunity to interview me for his confirmation requirements.
A Decision I Almost Put Off
On the eve of the confirmation, I attended the Friday-morning Mass at our parish. I was considering taking the sacrament of confession, but with so much on my plate I told myself I would postpone it until next week. Joseph was in Mass with his father and two younger brothers. I noticed them lining up for confession after communion, and I realized I needed to go that day to demonstrate to the young man I was sponsoring that men must attend confession and to support him as he did.
Confirmation Day Brought an Unexpected Question
The next day was confirmation day. We arrived early to rehearse for the 50+ young people who would be confirmed. While speaking with the sponsor beside me, I learned that he was the uncle of the young man he was sponsoring. It made me wonder why Joseph had chosen me, especially since he had an uncle who was a priest and another uncle from Kelowna who was present for the confirmation.
When I asked him who had suggested me as a sponsor, he said he was the one who had chosen me.
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The Reason He Chose Me
After the ceremony, we all went to the family home for a celebratory lunch. I spoke with Joseph’s grandfather, who told me that Joseph had seen me at church services, Masses, and BBQs, and that was why he had asked me.
It reminded me of the work I had done with youth at risk of falling into gangs. I had long realized that what I did and how I lived mattered more than what I said. I also recognized one of the men at our recent men’s breakfast as that quiet servant who always helps, and that I saw his example!.
Young Men Are Watching
So, men, my message to you today is that young men are watching you.
Make sure that you see them and greet the young people with a smile and let them know they are loved at church.
The saying goes, “preach the gospel, and if necessary, use words.”
We are reminded at the end of Mass with the instruction: “Go in peace, glorifying the Lord by your life.”
