Baby blessing
This ceremony may be used in the case of parents or guardians for whom the child dedication is not suitable.
Hear the words of Scripture: “…they brought little children to Him, that He might touch them; but the disciples rebuked those who brought them. But when Jesus saw it, He was greatly displeased and said to them, Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of God. Assuredly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it. And He took them up in His arms, put His hands on them, and blessed them” (Mark 10:13-16).
Today, [parent’s/guardians’ name] has brought his/her/their baby [child’s name] to present him/her to the Lord. We commend the desire of this parent/these parents to seek God’s blessing upon his/her/their little one. And, we pray that this moment will forever mark itself upon [parent’s/guardians’ names] heart and mind.
May I remind you of the command in Deuteronomy 6:4-7: “…You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength. And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up.”
God’s instructions are plain. You are to give your life completely to God and then teach [baby’s name] to do the same. You are to model right living and wholesome character. You are to take your child to church and teach him/her to pray. You are to read the Bible to him/her and lead him/her to make right choices.
Do you now offer [baby’s name] to Jesus for His blessing and for His tender purposes to be worked out in his life?
Parent/Guardians answer: Yes.
The minister takes child in his arms.
____________________________ [baby’s full name], just as Jesus blessed little children when He was here on earth, may His blessing now rest on you. May you early come to know Jesus as your Savior and live for Him.
The minister hands baby back to mother.
Kneeling or standing, the minister offers an appropriate prayer for baby and parent/guardians.