Yes. Parent + Child Dedication is designed for families who call New Life Church home and are committed to being planted in this church community. Because dedication is a public commitment to partner with God and the church in raising your child to walk in truth, parents are asked to complete Step Two of the Growth Track and become members of New Life Church before participating. This allows us to truly walk alongside your family, support you, and invest in your child's spiritual foundation together.

No. Dedication and baptism are not the same. We believe baptism is a personal decision made by an individual who has chosen to follow Jesus and understands what that decision means. Parent + Child Dedication is not a sacrament, and it does not impart salvation or grace to a child. Salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ alone. Instead of baptizing infants or children, we practice dedication—where parents present their child before God and the church and publicly commit to raising them according to Scripture, trusting God with their child’s life and future.

Parent + Child Dedication reflects a parent’s commitment to raise their child to know and follow Jesus, including single parents. We also encourage you to include meaningful spiritual influences in your child’s life—such as family members, mentors, or close friends—to stand with you during the dedication. As a church family, New Life is committed to supporting and walking alongside single parents with encouragement, care, and community.

You’ll attend a guided class led by your one of our Pastors & Kids Director, designed to encourage and equip you as a parent.

During the class, you can expect:

• Biblical teaching on raising children to know and follow Jesus

• Practical encouragement for leading your family in faith

• Clear understanding of the Parent + Child Dedication journey

• Connection with other parents in the same season of life

• A welcoming, community-focused environment

This class isn’t just informational—it’s relational, encouraging, and foundational. It’s a space to learn, grow, and build community as you step into this commitment together.

Parent + Child Dedication takes place during a weekend service on the main stage, allowing your entire church family to celebrate and pray with you. This is a public, meaningful moment where:

• Your family is welcomed and prayed over

• You publicly commit to raising your child to know Jesus

• The church commits to supporting and walking alongside your family

• Your child is blessed and celebrated in front of the church

Your New Life Kids Director will work directly with you to coordinate scheduling and details so you feel prepared, supported, and cared for throughout the process.

Parent + Child Dedication takes place throughout the year and follows a class + dedication journey.