What is a child dedication?
At Crossroads, child dedications are a public declaration by believing parents to raise their child in
the ways of the Lord (Proverbs 22:6). This commitment is made before God and the church and
includes a prayer of blessing over the child and family. It’s a meaningful moment that marks the
beginning of a spiritual journey for both parent and child.
As a parent, what am I committing to?
Child dedication is a commitment to intentionally guide your child toward a relationship with Jesus.
This includes:
• Modeling Faith – Living out your relationship with Jesus in everyday life, showing your child
what it means to love and follow Him.
• Church Community – Raising your child within a Christ-centered community where they can
grow, belong, and build meaningful relationships.
• Spiritual Leadership – Taking an active role in your child’s spiritual growth through prayer,
conversations, and creating opportunities for them to know and trust Jesus.
Are there spiritual requirements for parents?
Yes. At least one parent or guardian should be a committed follower of Jesus who is actively living
out their faith. Child dedication is an expression of your desire to lead your child toward Christ—
beginning with your own example.
Can a single parent dedicate their child in service?
Yes. A child dedication signifies the commitment of parents (or a single parent) to lead their child in the ways of the Lord.
What if we’re not married?
If you are a single parent, you are welcome to dedicate your child, provided you are not living
with a partner outside of marriage.
For unmarried couples living together, we ask that steps be taken to align your relationship with
biblical values—either through marriage or by adjusting your living arrangement—before
participating in child dedication. These factors don’t disqualify you from dedicating your child, but
we recommend waiting until these circumstances change to participate.
This is not about shame, but about integrity. Child dedication reflects a commitment to lead a
child in God’s ways, which begins with you modeling those values in the home.
Does a child dedication ensure salvation for my child?
No. As parents, we cannot decide our child’s salvation for them. Salvation is and will always be a decision reserved for each individual person.
There is no Biblical pre-determined age for salvation (see Matthew 18:3, Mark 10:14-15, Luke 18:17). Crossroads believes that when a child understands the concept of sin and their responsibility for that sin, they are then ready to make a commitment of faith in Jesus. For more information on what Crossroads believes about salvation, please visit our Statement of Faith.
Are child dedications the same as baptisms?
No. Child dedication and baptism are different. At Crossroads, baptism is an outward expression
of an individual’s personal decision to follow Jesus. Because of this, we do not practice infant
baptism.
How old should my child be in order to be dedicated?
Typically, Crossroads dedicates children from birth to three years old. In some cases, older children can be dedicated especially if the parents have recently made decisions to give their lives to Jesus.
Are there references to child dedications in the Scriptures?
Yes. Hannah dedicated her son Samuel (1 Samuel 1:11-28). Jesus was dedicated by his parents (Luke 2:22). Jesus also bestowed blessings on children (Mark 10:16).
What should I expect the day of the ceremony?
At some point mid-service, the pastor will invite the parents and child on stage and will explain a quick synopsis about what child dedications are and why we do them.
Like vows at a wedding ceremony, the pastor will ask the parents, Is it your desire to dedicate yourselves and your household to the following and teaching of our Lord Jesus? If so, please respond by saying, “We do.” Do you vow to raise your children on the Truths of God’s Word and encourage them to believe in Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior? If so, please respond by saying, “We do.” Directly following this statement, the pastor will ask the congregation, Do you vow with God’s help, and in partnership with the family, to support them, encourage them, and hold them accountable in raising their child in the ways of the Lord? If so, please respond by saying, “We do.”
The pastor will then conclude with a prayer of blessing over the child and family.
I want to Dedicate my Child!
Great! Fill out the application HERE.
