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”
  • "Dessert" Reception

5. May we bring guests?

Yes, we encourage you to invite family and friends to this event.  [If possible, maximum 20 guests per family, please]

6. Are godparents, grandparents etc. acknowledged?

We know that every person you invite holds a special place in the life of your family and for your child.  Though we cannot individually acknowledge all of the people who are attending, we collectively honor your guests and their importance in the life of your child.

7. How many families participate at each Child Dedication?

We host no more than 20 families at each Dedication Ceremony.  This allows us to keep this event as 'personal' and intimate as possible.

Child Dedication

8. What do we need to do to prepare for participating in Child Dedication?

You’ll be asked to provide via email:
• Digital pictures of your child, including 'family' pictures
• RSVP for the number of guests attending for adequate seating and the Cake & Punch Reception
• There is nothing to bring…just you and your guests

9. Are invitations available?

Yes, invitations to Child Dedication are always available at the Guest Service desk. You may pick up invitations once you are registered for a specific Child Dedication date.

Where do I register for Child Dedication?
Contact Care Ministries at 734.414.7777.  Registration for a single Child Dedication will close once maximum family participation is reached.  We suggest you contact us at least 4 months out to participate in a given Child Dedication event.

2010 Open Date[s] for Child Dedication:  November 20