Voices from Our Readers

“Journeying With You” – First Edition

Your Feedback Is Important

We deeply value feedback from readers of “Journeying with You” —First Edition, as their reflections offer meaningful insight into how the book supports real-life sponsorship within parish communities.

Reader responses help us understand which sections resonate most, where clarity can be strengthened, and how the content is applied in everyday accompaniment. Because sponsorship unfolds through real conversations and lived experiences, these insights keep the book practical, relatable, and aligned with the realities of RCIA ministry.

This ongoing listening process ensures that Journeying with You continues to grow as a trusted companion resource—grounded in emotional intelligence, attentive to relational dynamics, and supportive of sponsors who seek to accompany others with steadiness and care.

Readers’ Feedback

“This is a good book, and the emotional intelligence skills presented are useful in supporting and complementing RCIA sponsors. Some of these emotional intelligence concepts could also be applied in OFC courses.” —Rev. Fr. Terence Kesavan, Catechetical Director, OFC

“As a sponsor, I often reflect on my interactions with the community. This book offers very practical tips and helpful reminders about the dos and don’ts as I make space for those I am journeying with.” —Gracy Toh: SAC, RCIA Sponsor

“Wow! Written with very good guidelines for sponsors, this book clearly highlights the role, importance, and responsibilities of RCIA sponsors. It provides a practical framework for sponsors to draw on various techniques to improve their journey with their catechumens. I give thanks and praise to God for working through you in writing this book, which will serve as a valuable resource for sponsors. God Bless!” —Eddie Foo: CSM, RCIA Sponsor

“This book is an essential resource for anyone serving as an RCIA sponsor. Being a sponsor involves a long journey of introducing others to the Catholic faith. It requires commitment, the ability to build meaningful connections, address doubts, and foster a strong bond between sponsors and catechumens. This book helps us develop the important skills necessary to truly represent Christ throughout our journey. Thank you, Steven, for sharing this book with us.” —Heni Muljati: SAC, RCIA Sponsor

“The many scenarios described in the book reflect Steven’s sharp observations of personalities and events during the course of the 2024–2025 RCIA program. This book should be read by all sponsors, both new and experienced, as it serves as a good reminder that a good sponsor does not need to have all the answers about the Catholic faith. Rather, the role of a sponsor involves embodying the virtues of patience, humility, and empathy, enabling inquirers to experience the love of Jesus through their interactions with the sponsors.” —Constance Lee: RCIA Sponsor

“I appreciate the way you have introduced the importance of emotional intelligence into this book in support of the role of sponsors. Sponsors who cultivate self-awareness can gain a deeper understanding of themselves and become more effective companions to the catechumens on their faith journey. Your book is a practical guide for sponsors, from the beginning of their journey with catechumens to the formation of a faith community after Baptism, showing how all can grow together as disciples of Christ. The quizzes at the beginning of the book help sponsors to evaluate themselves. The deeper exploration of each emotional intelligence skill, together with practical steps, equips RCIA sponsors to respond thoughtfully to catechumens throughout the journey. Most of all, the emphasis on prayer and quiet time with the Lord enhances not only our relationship with Him, but also our relationship with one another. It shows how the journey of a sponsor is also a journey of personal growth, making one a better disciple of the Lord. May God bless and guide you on your next book.” —Pauline Chin: SAC, RCIA Sponsor

“From a sponsor’s perspective, the book is useful and relevant in many contexts. Firstly, it guides sponsors in navigating sensitive or difficult conversations and topics, allowing them to adapt their communication style to the personalities and needs of inquirers and catechumens. This helps create a “safe space” and build trust among sponsors, inquirers, and catechumens, which is particularly important during the RCIA journey, when individuals are seeking to explore their faith. Without this “safe space,” inquirers and catechumens may struggle to continue their journey, as they would not feel comfortable asking questions and sharing personal experiences. Besides, the demands placed on sponsors are often overlooked. It is, without doubt, a challenging and stressful role. By equipping themselves with knowledge of emotional intelligence, sponsors will be better able to regulate their emotions and manage stress. This book is thus a great resource for anyone preparing to be a sponsor, as it provides a guide on emotional intelligence while accompanying inquirers and catechumens in the RCIA journey.” —Xing Xiu, SAC

“The book is a valuable tool that helps sponsors fulfill their role as mentors to catechumens. I believe it applies not only to sponsors, but also to everyday people like us. With emotional intelligence, human interactions can be more compassionate and forgiving. It takes practice and patience to develop these traits, but even starting with just one can make a significant difference. Thank you for sharing this book—it is insightful and rich in practical lessons. I hope to be like you: eloquent, calm, humble, and compassionate.” —Sofia Li, SAC

“Your book has made it easier to understand the relevance of emotional intelligence in spiritual mentorship, and I believe it is a valuable resource for anyone open to integrating emotional awareness into their faith journey. I will certainly continue reading the remaining chapters and look forward to applying what I’ve learned in my daily life. Thank you for sharing this. I have no doubt you will make a wonderful sponsor yourself.” —Jaymee Ong, SAC