Welcome to the World!

Unitarian Child Dedications

As a Unitarian Universalist minister I frequently perform child dedications in which the infant is presented to the community by the parents. Our ceremonies may be held in a church sanctuary, park, beach, or in a family home. We use water as a symbol of all that connects us with all life on earth. We dip a rosebud in water, a symbol of life unfolding, stripped of thorns, to signify our readiness to smooth the way in childhood and remove obstacles to growth until the child is ready to deal with life's harsher realities. A candle is lit to represent the brightness of this new spirit among us. We pledge on behalf of humanity to love, support, and appreciate the unfolding of this unique life.

The Rev. Carole Martignacco
Derby Line, VT