What is Baby/Child Dedication?
Baby dedication and child dedication are the act of giving back to God the gift he has given you as parents. It is an act of worship, thanksgiving, dependence, trust, and commitment. The practice of child dedication has been modeled throughout the Bible.

The Israelites brought their 8-day-old children to the priest for blessing. Hannah (I Samuel 1:24-28) brought her long-awaited son Samuel to the priest Eli to dedicate him to the Lord. Mary and Joseph brought baby Jesus to the temple for his dedication.

We recognize that salvation only comes to a child through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. It is not passed on to a child through dedication. Parents covenant to raise their children by modeling Godly principles with the desire that one day, their children will receive Jesus Christ as their personal Savior.

 

Is dedication the same as infant baptism or christening?
Child dedication is different from infant baptism or christening. While these rites are significant for a variety of faiths, it is the practice of Jesus Fellowship Church to dedicate children.

We at Jesus Fellowship Church believe that all infants are destined for heaven should they die before they are old enough to enter into a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. We also believe the Bible teaches that baptism should take place after a person has made a personal choice to follow Jesus Christ.

When & Where is Baby & Child Dedication?
Child dedication is held generally once a month as a separate service Sunday at 10:00 a.m. in the sanctuary. You must register for upcoming dedications. Parents are required to attend an orientation class, which is held before each dedication.

What if I am unable to attend the Child Dedication Orientation Class? Can my spouse attend the orientation for both of us?
The orientation class is a required part of the dedication process for each parent desiring to dedication his or her child at Jesus Fellowship Church . If you are unable to attend the orientation class, please contact Lisa at 412-854-3137 and inquire about future dates.

We are expecting a child next month. May we still attend the Child Dedication Orientation Class?
Yes. Once you attended the orientation class, you may schedule your actual Dedication at any time in the future.

I am a single parent. May I still dedicate my child?
Absolutely!

Who should we invite to the Dedication Service? Do I need to select “God parents” for my child?
The Celebration of Life Dedication Service is a very special time, so be sure to invite your family, friends, and/or small group members. There is no limit on the number of guest you may invite! We do not use the term “God parents” at Jesus Fellowship Church , however we certainly support your choice of significant individuals to offer support and encouragement and to hold you accountable to the commitment you will be making.

Do I have to be a member of Jesus Fellowship Church to participate in the Celebration of Life Child Dedication?
No, participants need not be members. We only ask that you be regular attendees with a desire to raise/bring your child up in Godly, Christ centered home.

Will there be refreshments for our guests?
There will be light refreshments for your guests at the dedication service but you may wish to have a small reception at your home or at a nearby restaurant either before or after your dedication.

Being a new Christian, I am a little nervous about all of this.
If you are a new Christian, we are delighted to be a part of this important step in your newly found walk with Jesus. Our intent is to come alongside of you and help ensure that the Child Dedication is a non-threatening process that will be a personal time of deep significance for you and your family.