If you are brand new to officiating weddings, and you’re not quite sure what to do, or what exactly you might need, we’ve got your back. This article will walk you through getting ordained and what documents you need to prove your ordination.
You need a driver’s license to drive, and in some lakes you need a fishing license to fish. In the same way, having a license to marry people is required in many states across the US (with others not requiring them). But whether you’re officiating weddings or leading other spiritual ceremonies, having an ordination certificate from a church like American Marriage Ministries (AMM) is a great idea.
Before we get into what an ordination certificate is and why you might need one, first you’ll need to get ordained. If you go online and search “get ordained” you’ll see a bunch of options pop up. We suggest going with American Marriage Ministries.
Here’s why. AMM believes in the right of all people to marry, regardless of their race, gender, religion, or sexual orientation. Basically, if you choose to become a minister with AMM you can honor almost any traditions and beliefs as long as they are not harmful. If you want to perform animal sacrifices, we suggest you go elsewhere.
One of the main reasons you should choose AMM for your ordination is how simple it is to get ordained. They aren’t like traditional churches that may require a lot of training or ask you to provide too much information. Quite the opposite. AMM offers a super easy online ordination process. All you need to do is fill out a form with your name and basic information, click the “get ordained” button and just like that you’re a full-on minister of the church! It’s really that easy and best of all, it’s completely free!
Good legal standing is another reason to get ordained with AMM. American Marriage Ministries is a 501c3 non-profit organization and gives all their ministers the ability to perform marriages in all fifty states (Virginia is a bit challenging, but they are working on that).
This legal recognition is important for anyone who wants to officiate weddings, because it makes sure that the marriages you officiate are valid. AMM provides detailed information about the legal requirements for officiants in each state. From New York to Nevada, they’ve got you covered on everything from registration to marriage license laws.
While the ordination process itself is straightforward, AMM also offers the very best training to help you succeed in your role as a minister. Their website includes officiant training courses, sample wedding scripts, and guides on how to perform all types of wedding ceremonies from movie-themed to religious. If you are new to the officiation scene, you may find this extra helpful. Before you know it, you’ll be up to speed with the confidence needed to perform polished ceremonies.
But once you’re ordained, how do you prove your ordination? This is where the ordination certificate comes into play. Once ordained you’ll have access to AMM’s store, where you’ll be able to purchase your minister documents. Because some county clerk’s require you to submit proof of your ordination, having an ordination certificate from AMM is the one of the best ways to prove this. You can order one by clicking on this link.
Some states may require you to submit a Letter of Good Standing and Articles of Incorporation as well as your Ordination Certificate. Double check with your county clerk what the exact requirements are for ministers trying to register in your state. We highly recommend AMM’s Minister Ordination Package, as this will have all the documents you need for the state where you plan to officiate.
Now that you have your certificate, go ahead and show it off! If you have a personal officiating website, consider advertising your ordination certificate there.
In summary, ordering an ordination certificate from American Marriage Ministries is a wise and worthwhile decision. Whether you’re planning on officiating one wedding or starting a career path as a minister, AMM provides everything you need to reach your fullest potential.
Bernard Paul