[Church Name]
Biblical Foundation
“Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD,
The fruit of the womb a reward.”
— Psalms 127:3
“I prayed for this child, and the LORD has granted me what I asked of him. So now I give him to the LORD. For his whole life he will be given over to the LORD.”
— 1 Samuel 1:27-28
At [Church Name], we recognize and celebrate the gift of life that God gives. Child dedication is an important ministry that reflects our commitment to guiding children to know and experience what it means to follow Jesus.
Purpose
Child dedication is a public commitment made by the parents and the church. It symbolizes:
- Parental Commitment: The parents’ promise to raise their child in a biblically shaped environment and to model a personal relationship with Jesus.
- Church Commitment: The church’s promise to support and nurture the child through its children and youth programs, helping them grow to one day accept Jesus and live for Him.
Parental Promise
By presenting their child for dedication, parents are:
- Offering their Child to God: Acknowledging that the child is a gift from the LORD.
- Committing to Parental Responsibilities: Embracing the duty to nurture, teach, and guide their child in a faith-filled environment (see 1 Tim 5:8; Proverbs 22:6; Deuteronomy 6:6-7; Colossians 3:21; Ephesians 6:4).
- Seeking Community Support: Recognizing the importance of prayerful support and encouragement from the church community (Hebrews 10:24-25).
Church Promise
During the dedication ceremony, [Church Name] pledges to:
- Support the Family: Assist in the child’s spiritual journey through active participation in our children and youth programs.
- Encourage Spiritual Growth: Provide a nurturing environment that serves as a positive influence and witness to the love of Jesus.
- Affirm Personal Choice: Recognize that while we dedicate children, baptism is reserved for those old enough to understand and choose to follow Jesus.
Scheduling and Ceremony
- Service Dates: Child dedications are held three times a year, separate from regular weekend services.
- Ceremony Details:
- Time: The ceremony is held on a predetermined Sunday at 3:00 PM.
- Duration: Approximately 45 minutes.
- Setting: A relational and intimate setting led by the Family Ministries Pastor, along with other parents and their families.
- Preparation:
- One week prior to the dedication, a meeting is scheduled with each family to review the order of service.
- Families are requested to arrive 20 minutes before the scheduled start time and check in with a designated staff member.
- Only the parent(s) presenting the child will be invited to the platform. In the case of a single parent, an additional family member may accompany if available. Other family and friends are welcome to attend and are encouraged to sit near the family.
Registration and Acceptance of Policy
- Registration Process:
- Complete the online Child Dedication Request Form.
- Submit the form at least 14 days before the scheduled service.
- Receive a confirmation email from our Family Ministries Team.
- Upon confirmation, feel free to invite family and friends to join in this special celebration.
- Acceptance:
By submitting the registration form, you acknowledge and agree to the purpose, intent, and logistical requirements of the child dedication policy.
Contact Information
For any questions or further information regarding child dedications, please contact [ NAME ] Administrator at:
Email: [insert email address]
Phone: [insert phone number]
This policy is designed to honor the sacred responsibility of raising children in a godly environment, both by the parents and by [Church Name]. We look forward to partnering with you in this significant journey of faith.