How to Become an Ordained Reverend

You can become an ordained reverend through an online ordination process.

Pastors, reverends and ministers traditionally are required to attend a seminary or Bible school prior to ordination. Yet even this is changing, as the Internet has made it possible for those seeking legal and legitimate ordination to do it quickly and easily online. Many organizations do not require potential reverends to enroll in the typical courses of study pursued by those who attend seminaries; they simply take you at your word that this is a position to which you have been called.

Things You'll Need

• Internet access
• Form of payment

Instructions

1. Choose an organization through which you would like to get ordained, such as MinisterialSeminary.com or AmFellow.org. First consider your religious preferences and denomination, and if you do not have one, choose a nondenominational organization.

2. Validate the legitimacy of the organization. Look for a physical address and contact information, and read online reviews about the service. Be sure to contact the organization prior to making any payments and await a response to ensure legitimacy.

3. Follow the appropriate procedures on your chosen site. Here you will fill out an online application, in which you may be asked to enter your personal information, provide a form of payment and instruct the organization on how you would like your name to appear on your ordination certificate.

4. Choose a package or study program. Some organizations offer different ordination packages where you can purchase different types of certificates, study materials, Bible study materials and handbooks. Many sites do not require a formal course or study work prior to ordination, yet they do offer the option for those who are interested in online or distance-learning.

5. Complete the process by paying for your materials and certificate after reviewing all of the information, available options, optional coursework and additional study materials, and await its arrival.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are becoming an ordained reverend with the intent to perform marriages, be sure to read about minister licensing laws, as some states have specific regulations regarding requirements ordained reverends must meet in order to conduct a ceremony. Also, make sure you register within the state of the wedding prior to performing the ceremony.

• There are many scam sites offering ordination certification. To avoid these, always check the legitimacy of the organization Make sure they have a physical address, working phone number, board members and a secure payment site.

References

• Get Ordained Today
• The Ministerial Seminary of America, LLC: Get Ordained Now
• American Fellowship Church: Ordination and ID Cards

Resources

• Get Ordained Today