Being a parent is undoubtedly one of life’s greatest joys, but it’s far from a stroll in the park. Remember that mix of excitement and trepidation when you left the hospital with your newborn for the first time? I recall thinking, “Do they really trust me to walk out with this tiny human? Can I truly handle this whole parenting gig?” It was a moment filled with both beauty and fear.
And those emotions don’t fade once you’ve left the hospital. As parents, we often wrestle with that persistent question: “Am I doing this parenting thing right?”
Deep down, we understand that effective parenting isn’t accidental, especially when it comes to passing on faith. We recognize that nurturing faith in our children requires love and intentionality. Child dedication symbolizes a commitment to raise your children with the love and knowledge of our heavenly Father. Check out Deuteronomy 6:4-7 for insights on guiding your children to know Jesus.
But be comforted, you don’t have to navigate this journey alone! While parents are the crucial influencers in a child’s life, we acknowledge that they also need other sources of guidance. That’s where the church community comes in. Child dedication isn’t just about promising before others to nurture your child’s faith; it’s also about welcoming and inviting the influence of fellow believers as your child grows spiritually. Every child can benefit from additional caring adults who model wholehearted devotion to Jesus.
When the home and the church join forces as two unified influences, beautiful transformations occur in our children’s lives.
I’m so thankful we don’t have to do this parenting journey alone.
COMMON QUESTIONS:
- Does my child need to be dedicated for them to be a Christian?
Not at all. Child dedication can be a beautiful spiritual milestone for your family, it is certainly not the same thing as salvation. We believe that every person needs to decide to follow Jesus for themselves. Child dedication is more about your commitment as parents to intentional parenting. It’s a meaningful practice, but entirely optional.
- When should I dedicate my child?
That’s totally up to you! You can dedicate your child whether they’re three days old or 13 years old. It’s more about you as parents: are you ready to accept the role of primary spiritual influence in the life of your child and commit to raising them within a faith community?
Have more questions or interested in being part of our next child dedication? Email chris@mcachurch.ca