Family Dedication at The Mount 

Family Dedication is a special time set apart in our worship gathering to celebrate God’s goodness and to recognize the responsibility of raising children in the knowledge of Christ. This moment is not just about children—it’s about parents making a commitment before God, their family, and the church to raise their children according to the gospel. 

At The Mount, we see this as both a privilege and a responsibility. It is a beautiful declaration of faith, where parents acknowledge their role as spiritual leaders in their home, and the church commits to supporting them through prayer, encouragement, and following Jesus through the truths revealed in the Bible. 

Why Family Dedication Matters 

Family Dedication is more than a ceremony; it is a covenant. It reflects the biblical principle that children belong to God and that parents are entrusted with the sacred duty of leading them in faith. By dedicating their children, parents publicly express their desire to create a Christ-centered home where their children can learn about Jesus and ultimately choose to follow Him. 

Our church family also plays a vital role. We pledge to support and encourage these families, providing a loving community where children can grow in faith. 

What Family Dedication is NOT 

  • It is not salvation. A child’s personal decision to follow Christ happens when they are old enough to understand and respond to the gospel. 

  • It is not church membership. 

  • It is not baptism. While baptism is an individual decision made by a believer, Family Dedication focuses on the parents' commitment to raise their child in the faith. 

  • It is called Family Dedication rather than Baby Dedication because it emphasizes the responsibility of the entire family to disciple their child. 

What to Expect During the Ceremony 

Family Dedication is a joyful moment during our worship service where: 

  • Families will be introduced and stand before the congregation. 

  • Parents will affirm their commitment to raise their child in a gospel-centered home. 

  • A Mount Ministry Leader and Elder will pray over these families, dedicating the entire family to follow after Jesus. 

  • Families will receive a special keepsake to commemorate the occasion. 

Where Do We See This in the Bible? 

One of the best biblical examples of dedication comes from Hannah, who had long prayed for a child, dedicated her son Samuel to the Lord: 

“For this child I prayed, and the Lord has granted me my petition that I made to him. Therefore, I have lent him to the Lord. As long as he lives, he is lent to the Lord.” – 1 Samuel 1:27-28 

Just as Hannah recognized that her child belonged to God, Family Dedication is a time for parents to express their trust in God’s plan for their child and their commitment to raising them in His ways. 

Parental Responsibilities in Raising Godly Children 

Dedication is just the beginning. Parents are called to: 

  • Teach and model the gospel at home (Deuteronomy 6:6-7) 

  • Commit to prayer for their child (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18) 

  • Lead their child to trust in Christ (Proverbs 22:6) 

  • Create a home centered on love, faith, and discipleship (Ephesians 6:4) 

Our church is here to walk alongside parents, equipping them with resources, encouragement, and a Christ-centered community. 

The Mount’s Commitment to Families 

At The Mount, we believe that raising children in faith is a journey best walked together. Our commitment to families includes: 

  • Prayer and support for parents as they disciple their children. 

  • Biblical teaching that reinforces a gospel-centered home. 

  • Family and children’s ministry programs designed to nurture young hearts in faith. 

  • Parent discipleship opportunities, including small groups, mentoring, and resources for faith-based parenting. 

While we cannot guarantee a child’s salvation, we are dedicated to partnering with parents in their mission to raise their children to know and love Jesus. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

  • Any parent or guardian who desires to raise their child according to biblical principles and within a Christian community is welcome to participate.

  • While Family Dedication is typically for infants and young children, we welcome families with older children who have not yet been dedicated. 

  • No, membership is not required. However, we encourage families to get connected with our church community so we can best support them in their journey. 

  • Due to the logistics of our stage size, we ask that only immediate family members participate in the dedication ceremony. However, we encourage you to celebrate this special occasion with your extended family, friends, coworkers, and neighbors. This is a meaningful opportunity to share your commitment to raising your child in faith and to demonstrate the seriousness of your decision to follow Jesus as a family. 

  • No, Family Dedication is different from baptism. Dedication is a commitment made by parents, while baptism is a personal decision made by an individual who has chosen to follow Christ. For more information about “Baptism at The Mount” you can go here.

Next Steps: How to Participate 

We are excited to walk alongside you as you dedicate your child to the Lord! If you are interested in participating in an upcoming Family Dedication, please fill out this form, and we will connect with you about the next available opportunity. 

👉 Sign Up Here 

(If you were previously on the list but had to postpone, we kindly ask that you fill out a new form.) 

At The Mount, we are honored to be part of this special moment in your family's faith journey. We look forward to celebrating with you!