Element Church believes children are a gift from God and celebrates parents who choose to raise their kids with Godly principles. Our Child Dedication is a time of public and personal commitment where parents make a covenant to teach their kids about building a relationship with Jesus Christ.

Expectations of Parents:

• At least one or both parents have made a commitment to having a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. We recognize that there are many families in which only one parent has come to faith and the spouse that is not yet a believer would like to participate – that is okay.

• Parent(s) are regular attenders of Element’s weekend services and following Christ in their own life by growing in Element’s Core Values.

• Parent(s) align with Element’s beliefs, purpose, and values.

• Parents commit to modeling personal purity and to lead by example in matters of faith and conduct.

Here are some FAQs that will help answer any questions:

Does Element Church need to be my church home in order to have my child dedicated?

We encourage parents to make sure they are calling Element their home church if they choose to dedicate their child. The reason for this is that in dedicating your child to God, you are stating that you are willing to partner with God and your local church family to raise your child in cooperation with God’s intentions. To partner with any church, a parent would be wise to decide if he or she agrees with its beliefs and vision, so they can fully participate in their partnership with the church.

At what age can a child take part in a dedication service?

While Element Church does not have a set age requirement for child dedication, the average age for a child to be dedicated is under 3 years of age. We have many families that dedicate children much older than that, usually because the family has recently made the commitment to follow Christ.

Can a single parent participate in a child dedication service?

Yes! Child dedication signifies the commitment of parents (including single parents) to do their best to raise their child to be a follower of Jesus Christ. Additionally, we highly encourage single parents to dedicate their child as they commit themselves to raise him or her without the presence or partnership of a spouse. The decision to dedicate a child is not dependent upon the beliefs of the ex-spouse; however, we encourage single parents to discuss child dedication with their ex-spouse. Ideally, both parents – even if not married – would still commit to the dedication of their child to God. We acknowledge that this is often not possible and that it takes extra effort for a single parent to raise a child. As a church, Element Church is committed to supporting single parents in providing a Christian foundation for their child’s upbringing. In the case of a single parent, that parent needs to be aligned with the commitments to purity that are expected of a parent leading their child to follow Christ.

Can parent(s) assign godparents?

Although the term “godparent” is not used at Element Church, we do welcome parents to invite friends and family members committed to supporting them. The presence of these significant adults symbolizes their commitment to play a supportive role in the child’s spiritual development. During the ceremony, only the parents and child are invited to be on the platform, but parents are encouraged to save seats for family and friends.

What should I expect during the ceremony?

During the dedication service, parents express vows before God, their family, and the church, declaring their desire to raise their child in a God-honoring way. Because parents are the key role models for their children, they play a primary role in the dedication service. The Church family will also be witnesses of your commitment, as well as committing themselves to help be a supportive community in which your child can be raised.

What should we wear on the day of dedication?

Parents and children are welcome to wear whatever makes you feel most comfortable. You will briefly be on the platform, so please choose appropriate attire. If you or your family has questions about any of the above statements, feel free to contact us at

kids@elementchurch.com

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