Child dedication is a ceremony in which parents present their infant or young child before the congregation. Unlike baptism in some traditions, dedication is not considered a sacrament or means of salvation, but rather a public commitment of the parents and congregation to do everything we can to lead that child to make a commitment to follow Jesus.

During the ceremony, we typically address the parents and the congregation, asking each to commit to being part of that child's story and development. Parents publicly commit to raise their child according to Christian teachings and values. The congregation pledges to support the family in this journey. The child is prayed over and blessed by church leadership. We incorporate scripture readings related to children and parenting.

The practice is inspired by several biblical accounts Hannah presenting her son Samuel to the Lord (1 Samuel 1:24-28) and Mary and Joseph presenting Jesus at the temple (Luke 2:22-40)

Psalm 127:3-5

Do you, parents, commit to remember your child is a heritage and a precious gift from God, and to lovingly treat them as such, working to help them be all God intends for them to be?

Ephesians 5:31

Do you, parents, commit to work with God to make your marriage an example to your child of the perfect relationship of love and commitment Jesus offers us as Christians?

Deuteronomy 6:6-7

Do you, parents, commit to do all in your power to teach your child about God, Righteousness, and Salvation through Jesus Christ?

I Samuel 1:26-28

Finally, do you, parents, now acknowledge that your child is a gift from God meant to be given back to God, and do you now, before us and God, entrust their lives into God's loving care?