Jessica's Dedication

Yesterday we had Jessica dedicated at church. It was a perfect Mother's Day gift for me.
When I was a baby, I was baptized in the Methodist church on Mother's Day too. Our church considers itself interdenominational as our congregation is made up of people from all different backgrounds and denominations. They also use traditions from many of the different denominations. Babies are not baptized, as I was as an infant, instead they are dedicated to the Lord and then when that child grows in their faith, they choose their own timing to be baptized as a symbol of their commitment and faith.
Having Jessica dedicated seems almost to be more for the parents and church family than it is for the baby. We publicly commit to raising her in the ways of the Lord and supporting her to the best of our abilities. We commit to dedicating our marriage to the Lord and committing to each other as husband and wife so that Jess may have a secure home to grow in. And the church family commits to help raise Jessica as sunday school teachers, friends, grandparents etc.
The baby is then anointed with oil and a blessing poured out on her for her mind to think the thoughts of God, her hands to do the work of the Lord, her feet to walk the right path, and her ears, that she might hear God's voice.It was a beautiful experience.
I am so thankful for a great church family that loves us and supports our family. We celebrate Jessica's dedication and know and trust that God has mighty plans for her!

(This last picture is just Ristow looking studly in his suit)