Child dedication was modeled by the parents of Jesus. He was dedicated as a child by Mary and Joseph. Luke 2:22, “Then it was time for their purification offering, as required by the law of Moses after the birth of a child, so his parents took him to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord.” Jesus was baptized as an adult by his own volition.
Child dedication is the dedication of the parents and families. The purpose of the ceremony is found in the parents’ intent to bring their children to the Lord. Parents are dedicating their child to God and dedicating themselves to be God’s instruments in raising their children according to God’s will. Child dedication does not provide salvation for the child, but is a commitment of the parents, their families, and the church to give the child every opportunity to come to a saving relationship with Jesus.
Deuteronomy 6:6-9, “And you must commit yourselves wholeheartedly to these commands that I am giving you today. Repeat them again and again to your children. Talk about them when you are at home and when you are on the road, when you are going to bed, and when you are getting up. Tie them to your hands and wear them on your forehead as reminders. Write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.”
Complete and submit the Child Dedication Service form to the Children’s Pastor.
Meet with the Children’s Pastor to discuss the meaning and reason for child dedication and the value of Christian parenting.
Invite as many family members and friends as you would like. Let the church know one week in advance if you would like seats reserved for your guests.
Email 1 photo of your child and 1 photo of your family to the church at least one week in advance. These photos will be placed on the large screen during your dedication ceremony.
Arrive early to the assigned service to meet with the officiating pastor.
Child dedications usually take place at the very beginning of the service.
The pastor will give a short explanation of the meaning of child dedication.
The pastor will invite the child and his/her parents, along with other family members and special friends to come to the front of the sanctuary.
The parents will be asked a few questions of commitment and will answer aloud.
The extended family will be asked a question of commitment and will answer aloud.
The congregation will be asked to stand and will answer a question of commitment aloud.
The pastor will pray over each child and family.
Each child will receive a Bible and a Certificate of Dedication.
The families will return to their seats.
A photographer will be available immediately following the service to take a family photo for you.
Do you promise as a Christian parent(s) that you will raise your child in the discipline and instruction of the Lord, depending on God for grace and guidance?
Do you promise to give your child every possible benefit of home, church, and school?
Do you ask God’s blessing and guidance upon the life of this child?
Question for Grandparents/Extended Family Do you promise to love and support these parents and this child?
Question for Congregation Do you promise to support this family in every way possible as this child is raised in the caring fellowship of the church?
