At AGCC, we believe that children are a gift from God and as parents, the stewardship of that gift carries great joy and responsibility. God’s central role in the lives of parents and children is essential to growing and establishing a healthy and wholistic home. “Unless the LORD builds the house, those who build it labor in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the watchman stays awake in vain” (Psalm 127:1).

Child dedication is a spiritual act of presenting a child before God, acknowledging Him as the ultimate guide in the child’s life. It is an act of thanksgiving, worship, dependence, trust and commitment by the parents and the Church to raise the child in the ways of the Lord (Proverbs 22:6). It invites God’s blessings, protection, and guidance over the child’s future while also reaffirming the parents’ dedication to providing a godly upbringing.

The ceremony also reminds parents to depend on God and His resources, including the church family and friends, to help nurture their children.

Scriptural basis for Dedicating Children

The dedication of children is a biblical practice rooted in scripture, symbolizing a commitment to raise the child in the fear and knowledge of God.

Hannah dedicated Samuel to the Lord as a fulfillment of her vow, showing the importance of surrendering a child to God’s purpose. [1 Samuel 1:27-28 – “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.”]

Jesus Christ was dedicated at the temple, emphasizing the practice of presenting children to God. [Luke 2:22 – “When the time came for the purification rites required by the Law of Moses, Joseph and Mary took him to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord.”]

Jesus welcomed and blessed children, affirming their value in God’s kingdom. [Mark 10:13-16 – “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.”]