Ryder's Dedication

Ryder John Robert was dedicated to Jesus Christ on July 1, 2012. We were so blessed to have so many family and friends attend. I remember standing in front of all of them and thinking of how they will all watch him grow from baby to boy to man.

Little man rests up for his big day in his onesie that says "I roll with Jesus".

Pastor Kevin led us in the dedication at our church, Northland. Pastor Kevin has been there for our family during many milestones. He married Steve and I, baptized me, and has now dedicated all three of our children.

During the ceremony Steve read a letter to Ryder from his parents.

Dear Ryder John Robert,

You are our big boy, our big gift from God. You entered this world “big”, weighing almost 10 lbs at birth, and you’ve amazed everyone with your off-the-charts big-ness ever since.  You fit into clothes made for kids twice your age, and holding you daily is turning your mommy into a body-builder.  You’re not just big in physical size, however. You give big joy and big love with your big laughs and even bigger smiles. We can only hope that the “big” theme continues throughout your life. Live big!  Seek out adventure and new experiences, and enjoy each moment to its fullest.  Love big! Be recognized by friends and strangers alike as a person who shares and gives generously, putting others before yourself.  Dream big!  Dare to dream bigger than the world says you should, remembering that we serve a great and mighty God, and in Him nothing is impossible.

Ryder, your name means mounted warrior. In the many adventures that lie ahead of you in life, we hope you will live up to your name, standing strong for the things you believe in, and fighting for that which is good, right, and true. Be sure to enter the battles of life prepared, carrying God’s word in your heart.  As it says in Ephesians 6:10, equip yourself with the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the spirit.

It is our prayer that the family and friends gathered here today will encourage you and support you as you grow.  They will all have a part in shaping you into the man you will become.  We pray for God’s favor to be on your life, and that He use you in a mighty way to bless others.  We also pray that you will always stay close to your family, that you will care for and protect your sisters, and that you will follow in the footsteps of the great men who have come before you in this family. 

Ryder, we dedicate your life to the Lord and encourage you to live by the words of this verse in Micah 6:8 “Act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God”.

We love you big boy.

Mommy and Daddy

Mom made Ryder the perfect little outfit. The pocket on the front was made from Ry's Great Grandpa Schmitz's (John Robert Schmitz, his namesake) handkerchief  with the name John stitched in blue. Ryder wore his Grandpa Roger Fogle's baby ring and his Great Grandpa Carter Fogle's lodge pin. He was covered in symbols of love from the men who have come before him.

My sweet boy, you are loved more than you will ever imagine. Thank you for bringing so much joy to our lives. We can't wait to see God's great plan for your life unfold.