REGISTER MY CHILD FOR DEDICATION
THE NEXT CHILD DEDICATION SUNDAY WILL BE 12/17/2023
THE BIBLE SUPPORTS CHILD DEDICATION
In the book of 1 Samuel we read about a woman named Hannah who prayed for a Son. When God answered her prayer, with a son who she named Samuel, she prayed the following prayer found in 1 Samuel 1, “27 For this boy I prayed, and the Lord has given me my petition which I asked of Him. 28 So I have also dedicated him to the Lord; as long as he lives he is dedicated to the Lord.” And they worshiped the Lord there”. In the New Testament (Luke 2:22) we see Mary and Joseph bring baby Jesus to the temple to present Him to God. In addition, children were brought to Jesus and he blessed them.
WHAT IS CHILD DEDICATION?
The act of dedicating a child to the Lord lets God know that you recognize this child as a gift from Him and your desire is to bring your child up in God’s ways. The dedication ceremony is a public event, where parents, before God and all present acknowledge that they are committed to raising up their child according to God’s holy word and with the Holy Spirit’s help.
IS CHILD DEDICATION THE SAME AS BAPTISM?
Child dedication is not the same as water baptism. We believe water baptism should follow a confession of faith unto salvation. At REACH Church we generally baptized those who are at least 12 years of age and older.
CAN A SINGLE PARENT DEDICATE A CHILD?
A parent, whether single, widowed, or married may dedicate their child to the Lord. The act of dedicating a child to the Lord represents a commitment on behalf of the parent(s) to bring up their child according to the word of God. We do encourage all single parents to communicate with the other parent if possible, to let them know that you are endeavoring to raise up your child in God’s ways. REACH Church strongly supports all families; married, widowed, and single, as they strive to provide a Christian foundation for their children.
DO I HAVE TO BE A MEMBER OF REACH CHURCH?
You do not have to be a member of REACH Church, however, we do ask that you be a person that regularly attends. Remember, the primary purpose of baby dedication is found in the parent’s decision to raise their child according to the word of God, which includes giving the child the opportunity to grow in their relationship with God in a church environment.
AT WHAT AGE CAN A CHILD BE DEDICATED?
Any child, infant through 17 years of age may be dedicated. Most frequently, children are dedicated when they are infants, however, there are many circumstances and reason why dedicating a child who is older would be acceptable and encouraged. There is no hard rule with age.
WHO CAN I SPEAK TO IF I HAVE OTHER CONCERNS?
If you have additional questions you may call the church at (914) 761-3361 and one of our church staff will assist you.
WHAT DO I DO TO REGISTER FOR THE NEXT CHILD DEDICATION SERVICE?
Only parents and legal guardians are permitted to register children for Baby Dedication. In order to register your child for dedication click on the “Register My Child For Dedication” button below. Once you have completed the form a REACH Church staff member will contact you with further directions.