Baby Dedication Service Ideas

Scripture Reading

• The foundation for dedicating a child is found in the Bible, so many baby dedication services begin by reading some passages of scripture. One common option is Psalm 127:3-5, which discusses how children are a blessing from God. Deuteronomy 6:4-7 discusses the importance of teaching children about God's ways. Ephesians 6:4 provides practical advice to parents, telling them, "do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord." Any or all of these passages can be read to set the stage for the ceremony.

Parental Commitment

• The heart of a dedication ceremony is the parents' commitment to raise their child in a household focused on God. The pastor generally asks the parents a series of questions, to which they have to verbally acknowledge their promise to carry out the tasks related to raising the child. Commitments often include teaching the child about God, providing consistent and godly discipline, and providing a safe and loving home environment.

Prayer

• The pastor's main role is to pray and dedicate the child to God. The pastor generally thanks God for the child and prays a blessing for the family. The elements of the prayer should include asking God to strengthen and equip the parents to make wise decisions in how to shepherd their child and asking God to soften the child's heart to someday believe in Jesus.

Celebration

• The church congregation should celebrate the dedication of the baby and express their joy in partnering with the parents to raise the child in the church. One way for the congregation to immediately celebrate is to sing a simple song, such as "Jesus Loves Me," while the pastor walks the child through the sanctuary for everybody to see her up close. The church can also celebrate after the service by eating cake and punch in the foyer.