You are naturally very excited when a new baby arrives! 

You want to do everything possible for your child. 

Families often have questions about the Service of Family Dedication, which takes place in our church, from time to time.

This is a special time where you can commit yourselves to nurturing your child in a home dedicated to God.  You do this, as a family, in the presence of  the Lord, your church, community, and your family.

What is the purpose of the service?

Children are a precious gift from God!  As parents, it is good to present yourselves and your children to God and your church family!   We can celebrate new life together!  And we want to be able to encourage you in the task of raising your children in the way of Christ! The service of Family Dedication has three basic functions:

· It is an opportunity for us, together, to thank God for new life.

· It is an opportunity for you, as Christian parents, to recommit yourselves to Christian living and discipleship as you seek to raise your child in a Christian home.

· It is an opportunity for us, your church community, to express our support of your family!  And we can commit ourselves to assist you in the nurture of your child.

What does the service mean to you, as parents?

This service is a very significant event for you as Christian parents.  It is an opportunity for you to examine yourselves, rededicate yourselves to Christ, and commit yourselves to living a Christian life (including regular church worship, Bible study and prayer).  During the service you will be asked specific questions about your personal commitment to Christ as your Saviour and Lord, and about your

desire raise your child in the church community. 

If you are already involved in First Baptist, the service will be very meaningful for you!  This is a spiritual event involving you as parents, your child, the church, and God  …  it can be a beautiful, life-transforming time!  However, if you cannot in clear conscience make a

personal commitment to Christ or to raising your child in the church, you may wish to discuss with the pastor if you should wait. 

What does the service mean to your child?

It is important to realize that this service does NOT impart any sacramental blessing on your child!  Its primary significance is for you (the parents) and for the church.  In the service we commit ourselves to partner together in your child's spiritual development. 

We believe that until children reach an age of genuine moral responsibility they are covered by God's loving grace.  Family Dedication does not impart salvation.  Our understanding of Family Dedication is different from infant baptism practiced in some Christian traditions.

What does the service mean to our church?

The service is also very meaningful for us at First Baptist!  As a church, we take seriously our obligation to support you as you seek to raise your child in the ways of Jesus.   In the service we covenant with you to provide every opportunity and encouragement for the spiritual development of your child.  Therefore, during the service, our church members will be invited to indicate they are willing to support and assist you (usually by standing).

Naturally the service of Family Dedication should take place within a regular worship service.  And it makes sense that you should celebrate the service in the church where you attend regularly. 

In order for the service to have integrity, we take our responsibility to you, as a family, very seriously.  At the same time, you will need to participate actively in the life of the church - its fellowship and ministries (such as nursery and Sunday School) - so we can be there to support and encourage you!

Is this service appropriate for you?

If you wish to explore the possibility of a service of Family Dedication for your family … great!  Contact one of the pastors.  We will meet with you and talk through the meaning and purpose of the service. 

This is an exciting, wonderful time for parents committed to Christ!  The service is a beautiful spiritual experience involving you, your child, your family (if you wish to involve them), the church, and God.  But you do need to reflect upon its meaning!  In the presence of God, questions are asked and commitments made like these:  “Are you willing to dedicate your life to Christ?”  “Are you willing to commit yourself to raising your child in a Christian home?”  “Are you willing to be involved, regularly, in the church?”  If you can answer these questions positively … wonderful!

If you have questions about these service — or whether or not the service is right for you at this time —  talk with one of the pastors.  One of us would be delighted to meet with you!