Parent/Child Dedication

What is Parent/Child Dedication?

Dedication represents a public commitment by parents to raise their children in a home that knows, loves, and honors God. As part of this milestone, we encourage you to embrace and commit to these four key principles. 

1. Consistently pray for your child.
2. Instruct your child in the way of the Lord.
3. Model an authentic faith before them.
4. Seek to lead your child to Christ.

What is required to participate in a parent/child dedication?

At least one parent must … 

• Be a member of Bear Creek Church
• Have been baptized my immersion
• Attend the mandatory dedication class

Why are those things required?

You might be wondering about the dedication process. To participate, we ask that you first connect with Bear Creek as active members and ensure that you have been baptized by immersion. This aligns with God’s word in Deuteronomy 29:10, which reminds us of our collective commitment to stand before God as a community. It’s a call to take our faith journey seriously, together in God’s loving presence. Furthermore, as stated in Matthew 28:19-20, baptism is a public profession of faith in Jesus Christ and the first step of obedience for a disciple.

Before you can effectively teach your child about authentic faith, it’s important to model it yourself.

Here’s how to prepare for dedication day.

1. Indicate interest via this form.
2. Attend a mandatory parenting class. (Dedication happens each May and October, with the mandatory class taking place a few weeks prior.) This is a great opportunity to connect with other families and learn about the resources and ministry opportunities available to support your family.
3. Film a prayer for your child. We’ll meet to record this, which will be shared during the dedication ceremony and serve as a keepsake for your family. Additionally, you’ll receive a letter addressed to your child, explaining the dedication and your hopes for their faith journey.
4. Participate in dedication day. During the ceremony, you’ll come forward on stage with your family, and our pastor will pray over you as you commit to the four principles mentioned above.

This process is a meaningful way to share your family’s prayer and seek support from the church as you lay a foundation for your child to one day choose to follow Jesus Christ.