Baby Dedications

at Essential Rock

What does it mean to dedicate a child at ERC?

Child dedications at Essential Rock is a joyful recognition that every child is a gift from God. Parents have a responsibility to develop that gift – to mold and shape, to shepherd and nurture - this precious life. Dedication is an opportunity for you to publicly commit yourselves before God, family, and friends to raising your child in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.

Child dedication is a time for you to publicly declare your commitment to raise your child to know and love Jesus. It's also a time to welcome grandparents, friends, and other relatives who are crucial in supporting you in your journey.


Child dedication is not the same as infant baptism. We believe that baptism is a public declaration of an individual’s decision to follow Christ. Since infants are not capable of making that decision, we reserve baptism for a time when an individual is old enough to understand the decision to accept Christ as Savior.

A Christian Parent's Commitment

You testify that:

  • You have accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior and decided that He will be at the center of your home.
  • You believe that the Bible is the Word of God and you will read and obey it.
  • You will invest time, energy, devotion and prayer on behalf of your children to help them cultivate a relationship with Jesus.
  • You agree that you need the support and guidance of a Christian community to carry out your commitments to God and your children.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • What does Essential Rock believe about baptism and dedication?

    We believe that baptism is a public declaration of an individual’s decision to follow Christ. Since infants are not capable of making that decision, we reserve baptism for a time when an individual is old enough to understand their decision to receive Jesus Christ as their Savior. 


    Faith is not passed on to a child through dedicating a child; parents are making a commitment to raise their child in the training and instruction of the Lord with the desire that one day their child will receive Jesus Christ as their personal Savior and choose to be baptized.

  • What is required prior to dedicating a child?

    Parents must be ready to publicly make the required Parent’s Commitment and attend an orientation that usually occurs the evening prior to the dedication. Child dedications do not require membership at Essential Rock.

  • When do child dedications occur at Essential Rock?

    Child dedications are a part of Essential Rock Church's weekend services.

  • How do parents sign up to have their child dedicated?

    Parents can contact Essential Rock to sign up for child dedications. Please call Pastor John at 920-841-6459, or you can use the contact form on the bottom of the Life Events page and someone will get back to you shortly.