How to Become an Ordained Minister for Weddings

Some couples prefer a close friend to perform their marriage ceremony.

Becoming an ordained minister allows you to perform a variety of religious functions, including weddings and presiding over funerals. You can easily become ordained through a non-denominational church using the Internet. Some religious organizations do not even charge a fee for the ordination. It is important, however, that you check with the state in which you will be performing the ceremony to make sure that your ordination is legal.

Instructions

1. Check with your state's licensing department or your local clerk of the courts to make sure they accept ordination from any religious group. In some states, you cannot be both a witness and the person performing the ceremony, so make sure the couple getting married plans to have separate witnesses present.

2. Visit the website of a religious group that offers online ordination. See some examples listed in the Resources section.

3. Provide your full, legal name for the application, along with any other information requested. Apply for ordination at least eight weeks before the ceremony in order to give the church time to mail you your certificate of ordination. Pay any fees applicable to your ordination, if the group charges fees.

4. Take your certificate of ordination to the licensing department of your state, or simply call to confirm that your ordination is acceptable. If you have problems, call the church that issued the certificate and they will contact the state for you.

References

• King County: Getting Married
• Universal Life Church: FAQ

Resources

• Universal Life Church: Become a Minister
• Ordination