What is the biblical purpose and history of a child dedication?

The scriptural root of a child dedication is found in 1 Samuel 1:27–28 (NASB), where a godly woman named Hannah prayed year after year for God to give her a child. He answered her prayer and she gave birth to a son, whom she named Samuel. When Samuel was born, Hannah prayed these words:

"For this boy I prayed, and the Lord has given me my petition which I asked of Him. So I have also dedicated him to the Lord; as long as he lives he is dedicated to the Lord."

In Luke chapter 2 of the New Testament, following the birth of Jesus, Mary and Joseph took the infant Jesus to the temple and dedicated Him.

In both Scripture passages, the parents entrusted their child completely to God.

The writings of Moses found in Deuteronomy 6:5–9 describe God's plan for how a parent should raise up a child:

"Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates."

One key step in marking your desire to nurture your child in the ways of God is to dedicate him or her to God publically, through a child dedication ceremony.

Why do you desire that parents be either serving, have been in a Growth Group, or be an Owner?

We believe that participation in one of these areas displays a commitment to being a part of The Bridge Church. This commitment is important in allowing us to support you in your journey of parenting. Also, involvement is often a sign that someone is active in living out faith in Jesus. This same type of faith is what parents are dedicating to raise their child with. If you have questions about this, we would be happy to talk with you in greater detail.

Does having a child dedicated mean that they are, or will be, saved?

No. Dedication is a time set aside to bless and pray for a child. It’s a time to dedicate ourselves to playing our roles in raising them to know Jesus. Then we believe that as they grow up it is God who calls them and opens their hearts to receive the message of salvation available through Jesus Christ.

 What will it look like to be a part of a Dedication Sunday?

We will prepare parents ahead of time to come out on stage with their child. One of our pastors will introduce parents and their children to those in attendance. You will be asked to affirm your commitment to helping your child grow to know Jesus, and to letting us support you in this responsibility. Then the pastors will speak and pray words of blessings over you and your child.