CELEBRATING THE LIFE THAT GOD GIVES

CHILD DEDICATION

At Cornerstone, we recognize and celebrate life that God gives! It’s why child dedication is an important part of our church. The tradition originates from the story of Hannah.

I prayed for this child, and the LORD has granted me what I asked of him. So now I give him to the LORD. For his whole life he will be given over to the LORD. – 1 Samuel 1:27-28

Child dedication is a commitment by the parents and the church to provide an opportunity for the child to know and experience what it means to follow Jesus.

PARENTAL PROMISE

Parent(s) voluntarily present their child and themselves to God. Parent(s) are committing themselves to faithfully fulfilling their parental responsibilities (1 Tim 5:8; Prov 22:6), to training their child in a biblically shaped environment (Deut 6:6-7; Col 3:21; Eph 6:4), and by being a Godly example by modeling and teaching their child how to walk in a personal relationship with Jesus (2 Tim 3:15-16). Parents are also acknowledging their need of prayerful support and encouragement by others in the church to do this (Heb 10:24-25). In Jesus Christ’s example in Luke 2:22 it says, “When the time of their purification according to the Law of Moses had been completed, Joseph and Mary took him to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord.”

CHURCH PROMISE

At the time of dedication, the family at Cornerstone is also committing themselves to participate in the raising of this child through our children and youth programs as well as to encourage this child in such a way as to be a positive witness and influence so that the child can grow up to one day accept Jesus and live for Him.

At Cornerstone, we dedicate, rather than baptize children. We see baptism as a reflection of an individual’s decision to follow Jesus. It’s why we wait to baptize children until they are old enough to understand and believe.

SETTING A DATE

We will hold child dedications as part of our Sunday gatherings. We can do so nearly any week of the year. We recommend speaking to a Cornerstone team member early and planning ahead of time so that your family and friends can attend.

PREPARING FOR THE DAY OF DEDICATION

One week prior to dedication, we meet each family and walk through the order of service. On the day of dedication, families will arrive 20 minutes prior to the start time and check-in with the designated Cornerstone team member. We will reserve the front section near the stage for our families to sit until the dedication portion of the gathering.

Only the parent(s) of the child will be invited onto the platform. In the case of a single parent you may request another family member to stand with you on the platform if they are available to do so. All other family and friends are more than welcome to attend and are encouraged to sit with the family near the front of the auditorium.

ACCEPTANCE OF POLICY

By submitting your application, you are indicating your agreement with the purpose and intent of dedication as well as the logistical requirements.

HOW TO REGISTER

  1. Please click the register button at the top of this page to register your child for dedication. Forms must be submitted at least 14 days prior to the scheduled date.
  2. You will receive a confirmation email from Pastor Kyle to schedule your meeting.
  3. Once your date and service time has been confirmed feel free to invite family and friends to be a part of this special time.