Steps to Being Ordained in Tennessee

Tennessee regulates ordination in the state.

There are different paths that you can take to become ordained in the state of Tennessee. An ordained minister is legally recognized by the government as being able to perform weddings, baptisms, and other rituals. Tennessee is the only state in the union to regulate ordination. Its laws insist that the ordination must be a "considered, deliberate, and responsible act." To become ordained in Tennessee, ministers must complete a traditional path to ordination or use an approved online process.

Instructions

1. Speak to the pastor or minister at your church to find out the requirements for ordination through your church. Churches in Tennessee are able to ordain ministers and the requirements will vary. Most require study at a seminary or college.

2. Enroll in a seminary school or a theology program at college. To become ordained through most churches, you will need to complete a four-year program or longer in theology.

3. Become ordained at your church following the necessary training or schooling. You may need to register your ordination at the county courthouse.

4. Find an online program to become ordained. Tennessee has stricter laws regarding ordination for performing weddings. If you want to be ordained to officiate a wedding, make sure you check that the ministry you are applying for is recognized as legal in Tennessee. The American Fellowship Church and Northern Way are two online ordination ministries that Tennessee traditionally recognizes. However, other popular ministries like the Universal Life Church are usually not recognized in Tennessee.

5. Fill out the online or written application at the online program you choose. For Northern Way, you also have to write an essay on your spiritual life and your present work as an un-ordained minister.

6. Be prepared to pay a fee. Many online ministries do not charge for ordination. Northern Way does have an application fee. In May of 2011, the fee was $150.

7. Wait for your ordination certificate. Some ministries will send the certificate through the mail and others allow you to print out after you have been accepted. Bring a copy of your certification to the clerk of the courts in Tennessee.

References

• Tennessee Laws: Chapter No. 745 House Bill No. 2079
• Northern Way: Become an Ordained Minister
• American Fellowship Church: Become an Ordained Minister in Tennessee