CHILD DEDICATION
What is baby/child dedication?
A baby/child dedication is a ceremony in which believing parents, and sometimes entire families, make a commitment before the Lord to submit a child to God’s will and to raise the child according to God’s Word and God’s ways. It is the act of giving back to God the gift He has given you as parents. It is an act of worship, thanksgiving, dependence, trust, and commitment.
Responsibilities Involved in dedication
Christian parents who dedicate a child are making a promise to the Lord to do everything within their power to raise the child in a godly way, until he or she can make a decision on their own to follow God.
Some of the responsibilities include teaching and training the child in God’s word, the Bible; demonstrating an example of godliness; and praying for the child.
Example of Dedication in Scripture
Hannah brought her son Samuel to the priest, Eli, to dedicate him to the Lord. I Samuel 1:24- 28. Mary and Joseph brought baby Jesus to the temple for his dedication.
COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is Dedication the Same as Infant Baptism or Christening?
Baby or child dedication is different from infant baptism or christening. While these rites are significant for a variety of faiths, it is the practice of River Church to dedicate children. We believe that baptism should take place after a person has made a personal choice to follow Jesus Christ.
What is River Church’s Stance on the Eternal Security of Children?
When asked who is the greatest in the kingdom of God, Jesus responded, "Unless you change and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven" (Matthew 18:3). God’s love for children is also shown in the Old Testament. In Leviticus the Lord specifically prohibited the people of Israel from offering their children as a sacrifice to the pagan god, Molech (Leviticus 20:1-5). It seems fair to conclude that if God forbade children from being sacrificed, He would not order those same children to be placed in the eternal fire of hell. From these Scriptures River Church believes that children are loved by God, and until they come to an age of understanding (some call it "the age of accountability"), they have a place in the kingdom of God. This means that should a child die before developing to a point where the knowledge of Christ can be understood and applied through forgiveness, the child would inherit eternal life in heaven as an heir of God’s kingdom.
When and Where is Baby/Child Dedication?
At this time, dedications are available upon request. River Church is available to officiate a dedication celebration at any of our weekend services. Sign up below!
I am a Single Parent. May I Still Dedicate my Child?
Absolutely!
Who Should we Invite to the Dedication Service? Do I Need to Select “God Parents” for my Child?
The dedication of your child is a special time, so be sure to invite your family, friends or life group members. There is no limit to the number of guests you may invite.
We do not use the term “God parents” at River Church, but we certainly support your choice of significant individuals to offer support and encouragement.
Do I need to be a member of River Church to Dedicate my Child?
No, but we request that you be regular attendees with a desire to raise your child in a Godly, Christ-centered home.
Who should I contact with additional questions?
bristi@riverchurchag.com or 563-321-0818.