Child Dedication

Welcome

In just a couple moments I’m going to invite the parents to come forward to dedicate their child to the Lord, but before then I would like to talk about what dedication is. 

Dedication is a time when the parents and the church come together to raise the child up in the faith. 

As we all know guiding a child is one of the most difficult and rewarding things we could do in this life.

Today we’re reminded that…

1 — Children are precious to God.

Mark 10:13–16 NIV

13 People were bringing little children to Jesus for him to place his hands on them, but the disciples rebuked them. 14 When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. 15 Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” 16 And he took the children in his arms, placed his hands on them and blessed them.

2 — Responsibility of the parents

Raising a child is privilege and I’ll remind you that we are mere stewards of their early years. We have the responsibility to speak into and build them up prior to sending them into the world. Parents are also responsible for building a faith foundation that will serve the child as they become older. 

B/c as we all know, one day we will stand before the Father and he’ll ask the question, “what did you do with Jesus?” Did you we accept him or reject him. Dedication reminds us that parents have a fundamental role in answering that question. Paul reminds us of that…

Ephesians 6:4 NIV

4 Fathers (parents), do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.

3 — Responsibility of the Church

The Church, the tribe, of Jesus followers has a responsibilty too. You’ve heard it said that “it takes a village” today we are promising to be your village. Our tribe will support you as you raise (child’s name), equipping, caring and loving your family. It’s our honor  and privilege to do so.

Ceremony

Parents will you please join me. 

Explain the letter – Here at New Post we have the families write a letter to their child that is read today and then again on their 18th birthday. 

– Parents read the letter. 

Scripture – We also pick out a life verse that is then read over them and prayed over them throughout their childhood. 

– Parents read the Scripture. 

Prayer & anointing

Heavenly Father, we dedicate (child) in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit…..

You have given (Child) to his parents as a special gift. 

I pray that you would give them strength and wisdom in order to make right choices for him. Give them help when needed. 

I pray that (Chikd) will follow your Word, commands, and your leading as he grows. I pray that one day he would fully surrender his life to you.

I pray over this family, bless them in unity and in love, in Jesus name, AMEN.

Service Flow

Welcome

Pastor Brandon briefly explains dedication

Pastor Brandon reads scripture

1st family called up

Family called up

Reads letter

Reads verse

Parents pray over child

Pastor Brandon anoints and prays for child - prays for parents