Why Baby Dedication and Baptism?

Making a promise to raise our kids in a home where they can grow in a deep relationship with God is a huge way of showing them how much we love them. Not only is this an honor, but it is also a calling from God. (Deuteronomy 6:6-7, Proverbs 22:6) At Menlo Church, we offer two different options for parents: dedication or baptism.

To have your child baptized/dedicated at Menlo Church:

• Your child needs to be 2 years old or younger
• Attend our baby baptism and dedication class prior to the baby baptism service. • For Baptism only, at least one parent needs to be a Covenant Partner. When you

choose to become a member at Menlo Church, you are stating that you agree with our beliefs and values, and that you want Menlo Church to be your home church.

You do not need to be a Covenant Partner of Menlo Church to have your child dedicated in a service. We do encourage parents to make sure they are calling Menlo Church their home church.

Why? In dedicating your child to God, you are stating that you are willing to partner with God and the church 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 be all-in in their partnership with the church.

What is Baptism?

Baptism, whether administered to those who profess their faith or to those presented for baptism as children, are one and the same Sacrament. The baptism of infants witnesses that God loves us even before we can respond in faith. The baptism of adults and children witnesses that God’s grace can make us new creations at any stage of our lives.

What is Dedication?

Parents who want to reserve baptism for when their child grows up and chooses to follow Christ on their own may present their children for dedication.

‍