How to Become an Ordained Minister in Virginia

An ordained minister can legally perform wedding ceremonies.

There was a time when the only way to become an ordained minister was by studying at a theological seminary, but with today's technology the process is much easier thanks to organizations that allow potential ministers to become ordained online. An ordained minister is able to start his own ministry or work in an existing one, and is also allowed to provide an array of religious services including officiating weddings, baptisms and funerals. If you live in Virginia and are interested in becoming an ordained minister, follow these steps.

Instructions

1. Find an organization that will allow you to become an ordained minister, such as the Universal Life Church or American Fellowship Church. Because there are so many churches offering online ordination, choose the one that best reflects your own religious beliefs.

2. Provide the required information to the church, including your name, mailing address and email address. You must use your own legal name; using a fictitious name or submitting another person's information without their consent is considered fraud.

3. Pay the ordination fee if there is one. This can generally be done via credit card or PayPal, or by mailing in a check or money order. In some cases the actual ordination is free of charge, but you will have to pay a fee to receive documentation, such as an ID card or a letter of good standing to prove that you have been ordained as a minister.

4. Wait for a confirmation letter or email from the church that states that you have completed all of the requirements for your ordination. If you have ordered documentation to prove your ordination status, this can take anywhere from a few days to a week or more to arrive, depending on the church's practices. Once you have been officially ordained, you may start using a religious title such as Reverend, Pastor or any other that you choose.

5. Visit your local county clerk to register as a minister. In order to be legally allowed to perform religious ceremonies in Virginia, you must provide proof of your ordination in the form of a letter of good standing or other credentials from the church.

Tips & Warnings

• While a person of any age may become an ordained minister, in most jurisdictions in the United States one must be at least 18 years of age to perform a legally binding ceremony. Check with your county clerk to learn the rules in your area.

References

• Universal Life Church Monastery: Ordination for Ministers -- What Does it Mean?
• Universal Life Church Monastery: Virginia Wedding Laws
• Virginia Legislative Information System: 20-23 -- Order Authorizing Ministers to Perform Ceremony

Resources

• Universal Life Church
• American Fellowship Church
• The County Clerk Directory: Virginia County Clerk Offices