There are many excellent reasons to get ordained online to perform weddings. Marriage ceremonies may run the gamut from ultra-traditional to non-conformist, but to be valid all must have someone to officiate the event. Perhaps a couple close to you has asked if you would perform their ceremony, or maybe you are thinking this is a service you would like to provide for many couples. In any case, you may easily become an ordained minister, with full authority to officiate at weddings of any or no religious denomination. Here are the basics:
1. Who may Apply?
So how do I become an ordained minister to perform weddings, and can anyone do this? Anyone may apply online to be ordained by one of several marriage ministries like the Universal Life Church as long as he or she agrees with our two core tenets, which state that we exist:
• To ensure for each of our ordained ministers the absolute right of freedom to practice their religion in the manner of their choosing, as mandated by the First Amendment
• To encourage our newly ordained ministers to do that which is right and in accord with their government’s laws.
Although some religions may have restrictions regarding whether or not their members may be ordained in a ministry, the Universal Life Church imposes no restrictions on who may apply. We welcome people of all denominations and of no religious denomination. One must be 13 years of age or older. In some states, you may not be able to officiate legally until you reach 18 years of age.
2. What Is Online Ordination?
To get ordained online by the Universal Life Church means to be granted the authority to perform a ceremony such as a wedding by the authority of our interfaith church. When you apply to be ordained, you will be required to supply your full legal name, birth date, and a postal and e-mail address. Once your application has been approved, you will be able to order your certificate as well as any other ministerial products you’d like. The Universal Life Church offers pages of support to answer questions and help with things like ceremony ideas and state licensing regulations.
3. Where May I Legally Officiate?
There are no restrictions on where a ceremony can take place. A couple may prefer a traditional church-style setting, or may want to take their vows in the great outdoors. As an ordained minister, you are legally authorized to perform a wedding ceremony, although several states require special licensing in addition to being ordained. It is best to check with local authorities to see whether or not registration with an official state or county office is required. The Universal Life Church offer links to help you find out individual state requirements.
4. How Long Is Ordination Valid?
Online ordination for weddings by the Universal Life Church carry no expiration date. Once you are ordained by the Universal Life Church, you may perform wedding and other ceremonies for as long as you are willing and able to do so.
5. How do I Apply to become an ordained minister to perform weddings?
Simply click on the button to apply for ordination. The form will ask you to agree to our fundamental tenets, and then to provide accurate information about yourself. It is very important that your personal information be factual, as any falsehoods or misrepresentation would invalidate the application. Once approved, you may log into your account and print a certificate of ordination.
Once you have explored how to become an ordained minister to perform weddings, you may want to understand more about the scope of being ordained. In addition to officiating wedding ceremonies, you may preside as well over baptisms, funerals, or any other lawful religious rite. Online ordination with the Universal Life Church allows you to be an instrument in facilitating many of life’s most significant milestones. One simple application enables you to accept the honor and responsibility of this role.