Child dedication is an important event in the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG). It is not a baptism but a public act where parents present their child to God, committing to raise them in the Christian faith. The order of service is structured to reflect thanksgiving, dedication, and blessing.
The service usually begins during Sunday worship, with praise and worship songs to set a joyful tone. Parents and family members are called forward with their child. The officiating pastor welcomes them and explains the meaning of dedication, emphasizing scriptures like 1 Samuel 1:27–28 where Hannah dedicated Samuel to the Lord.
Prayers of thanksgiving follow, where the congregation joins the family in thanking God for the gift of the child. The pastor then leads the formal act of dedication, often lifting the child in prayer and declaring blessings for health, wisdom, and protection. Numbers 6:24–26 is frequently pronounced: “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you.”
The parents are charged with responsibility. They are reminded that dedication is not only about the ceremony but about daily commitment to raising the child in the ways of God. This includes teaching scripture, modeling godly character, and ensuring active participation in church life.
The congregation also plays a role. The church community is asked to support the family, acting as a spiritual family to help nurture the child’s growth. This reflects the communal nature of Christian discipleship.
The service concludes with thanksgiving songs and rejoicing. Families often host celebrations afterward, but the central focus remains on God’s faithfulness.
The RCCG order of service for child dedication balances joy, scripture, and solemn responsibility. It is a reminder that children are gifts from God, entrusted to parents and the church for guidance and discipleship.