Baby Dedication

Last Sunday, Aiden had his baby dedication at our church.  For the longest time I didn't understand what it meant to "dedicate" your baby.  I have to say that I am so glad we did it now as I understand the true meaning of the ceremony.  This was a symbolic act that allowed Josh and I to declare our commitment to raise Aiden in a Christ-centered home.  This was not a baptism.  No ceremony is required for Aiden to be saved when he willingly decides to turn his life over to God through Jesus Christ. That will be his heart's decision.  

Normally our church has the babies and their families march across the stage in front of the entire congregation.  This year they tried it a little different and it was perfect and so very meaningful.  There were 11 families sitting at tables.  All the parents were able to invite friends and families to fill their tables (up to ten people) who would support them in raising their child to follow Christ.  We decided we weren't going to invite any friends simply because we only had ten seats and more friends than that so we didn't want to leave anyone out.  My parents and brother were already here for the Christmas break so they attended with us.  Actually, my dad was supposed to but his plane from LA was delayed so he joined us after the ceremony.  Josh and I would have loved for Josh's family to be here but it is such a long drive and we will be seeing them in a couple weeks so we just kept it small.  Once we sat at our tables that were decorated so sweetly we got to watch a little slideshow of all the babies.  Our pastor Paul spoke a few words.  Then Josh and I read a letter we wrote to Aiden about our promise and about the boy/man we want him to become.  It was a really special day!  Aiden received a new children's bible filled with stories a child can understand and a letter for our pastors Jim and Paul to be opened by Aiden on the day he accepts Christ.  

Here are a couple pictures we took!