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We frequently receive requests for some form of service for the dedication or blessing of an infant or child. Coming from a tradition where infant baptism is practised, we have not had experience of preparing such a service. DEDICATION/ BLESSING SERVICE FOR INFANT OR CHILD PRAYER (invocation for what is to follow) SCRIPTURAL LITANY (Mark 10:13-16) Minister: Some people brought children to Jesus for him to place his hands on them, but the disciples scolded the people. People: When Jesus noticed this he was angry and said to his disciples, "Let the children come to me, and do not stop them, because the kingdom of God belongs to such as these." Minister: "I assure you that whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child will never enter it." All Then he took the children in his arms, placed his hands on each of them, and blessed them." CONGREGATIONAL HYMN: (Jesus Loves Me) PRESENTATION OF CHILD The child is brought forward by the parents to where the minister or pastor is standing. The child and his/her parents may be introduced. PRAYER: God of our fathers and of our children, with Joy we praise you, We thank you, we honour you. For your love which has made us and supports us, we praise you. For your gift of life embodied in this child, we thank you. God of our fathers and our children, with joy we praise you. We thank you, we honour you forever. QUESTIONS TO THE FAMILY Name of Parents, by coming forward before God and his people, do you hereby declare your desire to dedicate yourselves and your child to the Lord? If so, please respond by saying "we do".... Having come freely, I ask now that you enter into the following commitment in the presence of God and his people. So that name of child may walk in the abundant life that Christ offers, do you Name of Parents vow by God's help and in partnership with the church, to provide name of child a Christian home of love and peace, to raise him in the truth of our Lord's instruction and discipline, and to encourage him/her to one day trust Jesus Christ as his Savior and Lord? QUESTION TO THE CONGREGATION: "Beloved in the Lord, do you earnestly promise to support this family in faithful prayer, Christian teaching, wholesome example?" PRAYERS FOR THE CHILD RECOGNITION OF GODPARENTS (If they are to be designated) CLOSING PRAYER copyright - Lloyd Strickland and Rev. Richard J. Fairchild 2002 use only with proper acknowledgement
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