Baby/Child Dedication

Next Dedication Service:
Sunday, December 20, at 9:00 and 11:30am

Questions & Registration Information
Karen Cann
Director of Preschool Ministry
313.882.3300, X229
Email Karen

What is Baby/Child Dedication?

Baby dedication and child dedication are 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. The practice of child dedication has been modeled throughout the Bible.

The Israelites brought their 8-day-old children to the priest for blessing. Hannah (I Samuel 1:24-28) brought her long-awaited son Samuel to the priest Eli to dedicate him to the Lord.  Mary and Joseph brought baby Jesus to the temple for his dedication.

We recognize that salvation only comes to a child through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.  It is not passed on to a child through dedication. Parents covenant to raise their children by modeling Godly principles with the desire that one day, their children will receive Jesus Christ as their personal Savior.

Is dedication the same as infant baptism or christening?
Child dedication is different from infant baptism or christening. While these rites are significant for a variety of faiths, it is the practice of Grace Community to dedicate children.

At Grace we believe that all infants are destined for heaven should they die before they are old enough to enter into a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. We also believe the Bible teaches that baptism should take place after a person has made a personal choice to follow Jesus Christ.

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 Baby/Child Dedication Service is a very special time, so be sure to invite your family, friends, and/or small group members. There is no limit on the number of guest you may invite! We do not use the term "God parents" at Grace, however we certainly support your choice of significant individuals to offer support and encouragement and to hold you accountable to the commitment you will be making.

Being a new Christian, I am a little nervous about all of this.
If you are a new Christian, we are delighted to be a part of this important step in your newly found walk with Jesus. Our intent is to come alongside of you and help ensure that the Child Dedication is a non-threatening process that will be a personal time of deep significance for you and your family.