The Bible says that children are a gift from the Lord (Psalm 127:3), so when God gives the church community the gift of a new child, we want to thank God and pray for the child while also praying for the parent(s) as they commit themselves to raising the child to know and love Jesus.
Celebrating children
When Jesus walked the earth, he welcomed, blessed and encouraged children. On one occasion he said:
“Then people brought little children to Jesus for him to place his hands on them and pray for them. But the disciples rebuked them.
Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” (Matthew 19:13-15)
So children have a vital place within Jesus’ community. At Christ City Church we want to welcome, celebrate, love, nurture and care for the children God gives us.
Supporting Parents
Being a parent is no easy thing; every parent will tell you that. As a church, we not only want to welcome and play our part in the nurture of the children God gives us, but we also want to play our part in supporting the parents in their task to “bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.” (Ephesians 6:4).
All the way back to Moses’ time, parents were to have the primary role of spiritual nurture in the life of their children. Moses said the people were to impress God’s ways on their children, talking about the things of God at home and and away, in the morning and at night (see Deut 6:4-9).
Thanksgiving vs Baptism
Various Christian traditions have different ways of celebrating the birth of a child. Some churches practice infant baptism, others have a dedication or a Christening/Naming-Ceremony. Each way has different merit.
At CCC, we believe baptism is for those that believe and can put their trust in Jesus for themselves (see Acts 2:37-39 and Colossians 2:12). Baptism is a way you dedicate yourself to Jesus and personally receive all the benefits of the gospel.
At CCC, we therefore give thanks to God for the child, pray for the child and the parents, give an opportunity for the parents to dedicate themselves in the task of raising the children in the love of God, and we as a church commit ourselves to supporting the family.
Our prayer is that the children would grow up to choose Jesus for themselves, and we mark that with baptism.
If you’re interested in being part of the next Child Thanksgiving Service in CCC please contact Steve. Dates can be arranged to suit families.