How Do I Become an Ordained Minister & Spiritual Counselor?

Becoming a ordained minister is easier now than ever.

The 21st century brought many things with it, including an easier way to become a ordained minister. Whether you want to start a church, officiate a wedding or just like the way "Reverend" sounds with your name, becoming an ordained minister is just a few clicks away. Online ordinations are legal, and once you become ordained, you are ordained for life unless you request otherwise. There are no age limits or special requirements to become ordained online.

Instructions

1. Review ordination websites to find the one that suits your needs.The cost for online ordination ranges from free to $200 in 2010. The price you pay depends on what is included in your ordination package. Typical ordination packages include a decorative certificate and a Minister's Manual. While most online ordinations are through universal churches encompassing all religions, you could also be ordained in a Baptist or Spiritual Humanist church as well.

2. Complete the ordination form by filling in all of your personal information. Fill out all of the information correctly to ensure you can use your ordination certificate as a legal document if necessary.

3. Pay for your ordination package if necessary. If you selected a package that costs money, you will be required to pay for your ordination after selecting your package and filling out your personal information.

4. Print your ordination certificate. If you chose a decorative certificate, then it will be mailed to your home address; otherwise, you will receive it via email. Print the certificate as proof of your ordination if you wish to officiate weddings, funerals, baptisms or form a church.

Tips & Warnings

• Some cities require additional steps before you can officiate weddings, funerals or baptisms. Contact your local county clerk to find out about additional requirements. For example, you might be required to register with your county clerk or submit your credentials to your local city hall.

References

• Universal Life Church Legal Cases: Get Ordained
• The Monastery: FAQ's

Resources

• Northern Way: Marriage Ceremony Officiating Requirements by State
• The Monastery: Free Online Ordination
• Spiritual Humanism: Online Ordination