Requirements

At James River we will dedicate your child if the parent(s):

• Have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ
• Are members of James River Baptist Church and are willing to partner with the church in raising the child
• Agree with the church’s beliefs and vision

We would ask parents living together without being married to take steps toward submission to God’s plan for marriage before proceeding with child dedication.

What We Believe About Child Dedication

Often we say that Child Dedication is more like a Parent Dedication. It is a public commitment before God, your church, and your family, expressing publicly your desire to lead and spiritually nurture your child in cooperation with the Holy Spirit, so your child will develop a desire to love God and love others (Deuteronomy 6:5-9). Jesus himself was dedicated to God by Mary and Joseph. It is important to understand that we do not consider Child Dedication to be a sacrament; it does not impart saving grace to a child. Salvation comes only through faith in Jesus Christ as each person recognizes their sinfulness and receives forgiveness and eternal life through Christ and His work on the cross. Child dedication is an act of faith that acknowledges that God is in control of your child’s life and that you want your child to love and trust Jesus as their Savior and King. It is also a commitment to strive by grace to raise your child in the nurture and admonition of the Lord (Ephesians. 6:4).