How to Be Ordained to Perform Marriage

Many couples tying the knot choose to have a close friend or family member perform the ceremony. If you are chosen to perform a wedding ceremony for a friend or relative, you will need to be legally ordained; there are many resources online which can help with the ordaining process.

Things You'll Need

• State laws on marriage
• Personal contact information
• Computer
• Printer

Instructions

1. Research the marriage laws in the state where you will be performing the ceremony. Most online ordinations are accepted by all states. Make sure you will be legally allowed to perform the ceremony.

2. Visit the Universal Life Church website (www.ulc.org). The Universal Life Church is a non-denominational church which offers ordination for free.

3. Once on the website, click on "Become a Minister" to go to their ordination page. Read through the information (it will tell you how to fill out the form and legal information pertaining to your ordination). When ready, click on "Proceed With Your Ordination."

4. Fill out the form on the page and submit it. This will take you to a page explaining what your next steps are. You will be able to print out your credentials from the site and you will receive a confirmation email regarding your status as a minister.

Tips & Warnings

• Explore the site for primers on performing weddings and other ministerial duties. By becoming ordained, you have the power to perform not only weddings, but funerals and other religious ceremonies as well.

• Make sure you follow all of the state laws regarding registering as an officiant.

References

• DangerousIntersection.com: How to Become an Ordained Minister Over the Internet

Resources

• Universal Life Church