Parent/Child Dedication

What is Parent/Child Dedication?

The purpose of Parent/Child dedication is for parents to present their child before God and the church, committing to seek after His grace and wisdom in carrying out their responsibilities.  Psalm 127:3,  says “Children are a gift from the Lord; they are a reward from him.” Parent/Child Dedication is a time for us to celebrate and thank God for the gift of your children. It’s also a time for you, as parents, to commit to model what following Jesus looks like and to raise your children to understand that they are saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ, to believe that the Bible is absolute Truth, and to know the importance of committing to a community of faith through the local church.

What does this mean for Parents?

During the dedication service, parents promise before God, their family, and the church to raise their child in a God-honoring way.

FAQ’s

Do I need to be a member to dedicate my child?

You do not need to be a member of Ironbridge to dedicate your child. We do ask that families call Ironbridge home, because in dedicating your child to God, you are stating that you are willing to partner with God and the Church to raise your child in cooperation with God’s intentions. As your church family, we are here to partner and connect with you as the body of Christ and support you as a family unit.

Can a single parent dedicate their child?

Yes! Child dedication signifies the commitment of parents, including single parents, to do their best to raise their child to be a follower of Jesus Christ.

Is dedication the same as baptism?

Ironbridge Church believes that baptism is for those who have made a personal decision to trust Jesus alone for their salvation, once they have the maturity and ability to understand what that means.  Rather than baptizing infants or children, we encourage a dedication ceremony, where parents formally call upon God’s blessing for their child and publicly commit to raise him or her in accordance with Scripture.

What should I expect on Parent/Child dedication Sunday?

During the ceremony normally in the first 20 minutes of the 2nd service, parent(s) publicly commit to help their child grow in their faith and to raise them in a home centered on Jesus. Our Church joins in welcomes the child and parent(s) with prayer and blessings over the entire family.