FAQ's

Who can register for Child Dedication?
Is there an age restriction to participate?
How is Child Dedication different than infant baptism?
What takes place in Child Dedication?
May we bring guests?
Are godparents, grandparents etc. acknowledged?
How many families participate at each Child Dedication?
What do we need to do to prepare for participating in Child Dedication?
Are invitations available?

1. Who can register for Child Dedication?

Families that are regular attendees or members of NorthRidge are encouraged to participate.

2. Is there an age restriction to participate?

There is no age restriction.  However, most children that are dedicated are under 5 years of age. We encourage families new to NorthRidge who are dedicating their infants, to also consider including older siblings who have not been dedicated, making this a family event.

3. How is child Dedication different than infant baptism?

Some churches practice a ‘baptism of confirmation’ for children.   This ceremony is intended to be a covenant between the parents and God on behalf of the child.  The parents promise to raise their child in the faith until the child is old enough to make his own personal confession of Christ. This custom began about 300 years after the Bible was completed.

This is different from the baptism talked about in the Bible, which is only for those old enough to believe.  The purpose is to publicly confess your personal commitment to God. Baptism doesn’t “save” you, only your faith in Christ does that. Baptism is like a wedding ring. It is the outward symbol of the commitment an individual has already made in his/her heart.

Child Dedication at NorthRidge is an opportunity for you, as a parent, to not only publicly dedicate your child to God but dedicate yourself to God. As your children see God’s love and His truths lived out through your lives, our prayer is that one day; your child will know the joy of having a personal relationship with Christ, as seen lived out by your example.

4. What takes place in Child Dedication?

• Power Point Presentations focusing on your child!
• Devotion by Pastoral Staff
• “Child Parade” [presentation of parents & children being dedicated]
• Video Tour of Discovery Island
• “Photo Op’s”
• Cake & Punch Reception