Public child dedication is actually a "parent dedication" in the sense of the desire and commitment of your heart. It is, first of all, your statement of personal faith in Jesus Christ and your desire that your home be a place where His Word is lived, honored, and obeyed. In order for you to dedicate you child to God, you must have first offered yourself to Him. It is inconsistent for an unsaved parent to offer their child to the Lord if they have not first offered their own life to Christ.
If you have questions as to what this means or uncertainty as to your personal salvation, please contact on of our pastors. We want you to know Jesus personally so you can truly be God's instrument in your child's life.
Child dedication is not baptism - neither does dedication provide salvation for the child. Constance Free Church believes public water baptism is to be reserved as an outward sign for those who have inwardly chosen to be cleansed from sin by confession and faith in Christ.
Child dedication is simply a private and public act by which parents signify that they will raise their children in a righteous and godly environment, involving both the home and faithful commitment to the church. Parents should set this example in the home by maintaining faithful prayer and church attendance. Home training and family devotional times can be a model for your children in Christian living and service.
For additional clarification on the difference between baptism and dedication, please visit our Believer's Baptism page.