Since water baptism is for “whoever believes” [Mark 16:16], Westside church does not water baptize babies or small children. We do conduct a service of dedication upon the request of the parents. At this time special prayer is offered on behalf of both the child and the parents invoking God’s blessing and protection. This act of dedication is significant because it gives public testimony that the parents have given their child to God and have gone before Him and the church stating that they will endeavor to raise the child in the admonition of the Lord.
[I Samuel 1:28]
westside believes
that the home is the primary place of instruction and the church will support and assist the parent’s commitment to Christian instruction and dedication purpose.
God intends children to be raised in a two-parent [father and mother] family. Dedication is not salvation, nor is it baptism. Dedication is a covenant with God and the church concerning the child and is a privileged point of participation that parents have in raising a godly child. Dedication should happen as early in a child’s life as possible.
Because a dedication is a promise of the church to participate in the child's life through prayer and role modeling, child dedications are performed for those with our church family. If it is found that the family who wishes to dedicate their child exists in a situation out side of our philosophy or policy, we will contact them to discuss their special needs.
Arrangements for dedication must be made by completing and returning the Baby Dedication Request Form to the church office at least 4 weeks prior to the requested dedication date. The age of the baby for dedication is 6 weeks to 18 months.
Return the completed “Request for Baby Dedication” form to the Westside Church Main Office Attention Kari Jo Starr. You will be contacted to ensure that you share the same understanding of your child’s dedication and to schedule your baby’s Dedication Service date and time. If you have any questions, please call Kari Jo Starr at 382-7504 Ext. 202. We would appreciate a 72
hour notice if you need to cancel.
Print Out the Request for Baby Dedication Form