Dedication of infants (and older children) at Southern Gables is modeled after the biblical "presentation" or "consecration" of a child practiced by God's people (Luke 2:22-23 and I Samuel 1:28). It allows parents to publicly dedicate their child to the Lord acknowledging that the child ultimately belongs to God and parents are the important stewards of the life of that child. It is also an opportunity for parents to indicate their intention and plan to rear their child in the instruction of the Lord, and to call for the congregation's support in doing so. As such, dedication is about the parents as well as being about children.

Dedication is not a waterless baptism and dedication does not "save" a child. For it is by grace you have been saved through faith (Ephesians 2:8) and baptism is the obedient response of one who has been "saved."

We conduct child dedications in worship services periodically throughout the year. Dates and contact details are announced in the Bulletin several weeks in advance. If you wish to dedicate your child(ren) to the Lord, please contact the church office so that we may be aware of your intent when the next dedications are planned.