It takes a Godly village...

Our church has usually held a dedication service for babies on Mother's Day.  I've always loved this service even before I had my kids.  There's nothing greater than looking at families who are making a commitment to raise their child in the church and to teach them about Jesus in their homes.  We did this with Cade when he was just a few months old and we got the privilege of standing in front of our congregation again with Lyla.

Lyla had stomach bug the week before so it was my biggest fear that she'd just vomit on the stage.  That would be a first!  

Anyways.  Enjoy the pictures and at the bottom I put what the commitment said.

Beautiful picture taken in front of new sanctuary.  (Thanks Beck for taking these pictures)

Most of the families.

As each child was called up there was a picture collage of the family and child.  Great idea!

Reading the vows.

Prayer by Pastor David.

 We didn't get to go celebrate afterwards since Lyla was still sick.  Y'all owe me a Mother's Day lunch!

Parent Commitment

Leader: Do you recognize your children as precious gifts of God and give heartfelt thanks for God’s blessing?

Parents: We do.

Leader: Do you now present your children to the Lord surrendering all worldly claims upon their lives in the hope that they will belong wholly to God?

Parents: We do.

Leader: Do you promise that with God’s help, you will bring up your children in the discipline and instruction of the Lord, making every reasonable effort to build the Word of God, the character of Christ, and the joy of the Lord into their lives?

Parents: We do.

Leader:  Parents, will you, to the best of your ability and with God’s help, provide a loving family environment in which your child can grow in love and obedience to God?

Parents: We will.

Congregational Response

Leader: These parents have expressed their commitment to God to raise their children in the nurture of the Lord. Will you pledge your support and presence in times of joy and sadness and in times of growth and frustration. And will you partner with them to love, teach, and pray for their children.

Congregation:  We will.