how to become ordained in ny

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Do you feel called to become an ordained minister? Whether you want to become a minister for religious reasons or because you've been asked to officiate a friend's wedding, ordination is a meaningful undertaking that allows you to play a special role in your community. Learn how to become ordained the traditional way or through an online organization.

1
Have a calling. Traditionally, ordained Christian ministers have felt a strong pull to become spiritual leaders. They are members of a particular Christian sect or church and believe that they are meant to serve their communities in the name of God. Services performed by ordained Christian ministers include:
- Performing baptisms.
- Officiating weddings and funerals.
- Providing spiritual counseling.
- Working as chaplains.
- Working as missionaries.
- Founding new churches.
2

Have a college degree. Traditionally-ordained ministers obtain their licenses through bible or seminary schools, which are effectively graduate programs. Like most graduate programs, entrance into theological programs requires a college degree.
3
Apply to bible school or seminary. Depending on the program, candidates will take courses in theology, philosophy, and other courses meant to provide preparation for a life devoted to religious service. A Master of Divinity degree is awarded at the end of the program.^[1]
- Becoming ordained as a minister through school was the most common path before online ordination became possible.
- Receiving ordination through school can take several years, and it can be quite expensive. In some cases, a church or religious community will sponsor a member who feels called to ministry.
4

Receive your ordained minister license. At the completion of the theological program, an ordained minister license will be granted. This grants you the legal ability to perform marriage ceremonies and other services that fall under the purview of ordained ministers.
5
Become a minister at a particular church. Churches perform their own ordination ceremonies after an application process has been completed. In most cases candidates will be expected to attend additional classes and undergo a presentation and interview process before ordination is granted by church officials.
- Ordination with a particular church typically means that the church will employ you for your services.
- In addition to conducting religious ceremonies, ministers affiliated with churches usually actively serve their communities by visiting the sick, holding educational programs, leading church trips and so on.

1

Have a purpose. People of all religious beliefs and levels of education are free to become ordained ministers. Most people pursue online ordination with a specific purpose in mind, such as an invitation to officiate a friend's wedding or preside over a funeral.
2
Find an organization that provides online ordination. There are hundreds of organizations to choose from, some religious, some not.^[2]
- The Universal Life Church, founded in the fifties, is one of the oldest and most popular sources of online ordained minister licenses.
- The Celebrant Foundation and Institute is a nonreligious organization has potential ministers take online classes on how to create a personal, meaningful wedding ceremony before they are granted ordained minister licenses.
3
Apply for ordination. Most online ordination applications are short and simple, and they're usually free.^[3] Expect to submit the following information:
- Your name, address, and email address.
- An optional reason for pursuing ordination.
- In some cases you may mail a written request for ordination to the address provided.
4
Wait for your ordination application to be approved. Your application will be reviewed by the organization, and you will receive an email if it is approved.
- Some organizations will send you an ordination certificate and handbook.
- Some organizations offer special packages with additional certificates and accessories.

1

Know your state laws. ^[4] In some states, ordained ministers performing a wedding are required to file a copy of their credentials with the state or with the county clerk issuing the marriage license, you could also be asked to submit letters of approval or fulfill other requirements.
2

Perform ceremonies. Whether you're officiating a wedding or performing a funeral, make sure you know exactly what your role in the process should be, both legally and in your role as a spiritual or celebratory guide. If you don't sign the marriage certificate or fulfill other legal requirements, the marriage may be void.^[5]

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Question

How much does this cost?

This depends on the organization through which you're ordained. Some charge a nominal fee (around $25); however some, like the Universal Life Church, are free. Make sure you talk to the marriage licenses department in the courthouse in your area to make sure your ordination is recognized by the state.
Question

Do all Baptist pastors go to divinity school?

No, not necessarily, but this is the most common path for pastors.
Question

Do I have to be ordained to perform a wedding ceremony?

In most Christian religions, yes, you do need to be ordained to officiate a wedding. In many states, it is also a legal requirement that you have been ordained in order to perform a legally binding ceremony.
Question

I would like to study to be a minister who will be able to run weddings, funerals, and baptisms. I will study online. How long does this course take?

Sounds like you would rather serve as an officiant instead of a pastor. No denominational connection required, as officiants tend to serve "spiritual" and civil purposes, and not necessarily religious, church, or clerical purposes. Check with your specific state laws regarding officiant requirements certifications, and licensing, and register with your local municipality so that your officiant standing and signature is recognized by civil authorities. Meet with currently practicing officiants in your area for recommendations on the best sources for officiant training.
Question

What is the legal title heading of an ordained minister?

What do you mean by "legal"? A minister has no connection to laws, and the book of Romans clearly explains that laws have no connection to Christians. Christian ministers are sent by whatever denomination they work with, so qualifications might vary. You just have to ask a minister within your chosen denomination for advice.
Question

How do I ordain someone?

Follow the instructions listed in the article above.
Question

How to join online for training in learning the Word of God?

It is important to consult with your church organization, fellowship, or denomination. Ask them for guidance in choosing online training with a view toward ordination. It would be a waste of resources to invest in training that is not approved by your specific fellowship.
Question

I am in South Africa and ordained online, but I can't order the document. Is there any way I can use my ordination?

You may be able to use an online ordination within the organization or fellowship from which it was obtained. If you desire to practice within a different organization, you must submit to their guidelines and requirements for ordination.
Question

Do I have to be a Christian to become an ordained minister?

Yes. If you are looking to be an ordained minister in the Christian faith, you should probably be a Christian. However, if you are trying to be an ordained minister in another faith, you should be a member of that faith.

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Article SummaryX

To be an ordained minister, visit the website of an organization that provides online ordinations. Then, fill out the application on their website, which will ask for your name, address, and possibly your reasoning for wanting to be an ordained minister. Once you've completed the application, just submit it and wait to be approved. Once the organization approves you, they'll mail you an official ordination certificate. If you want to learn more, like how to take a traditional path to get ordained, keep reading the article!

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