Getting ordained is a crucial step if you wish to officiate weddings, lead ceremonies, or offer spiritual support to friends, family, or your community. But ordination is just the start. To serve well and confidently in your new role, there are key actions to take after you get ordained.
This guide will explain the top seven things you should do next to make the most of your ordination and prepare yourself for success.
7 Things to Do After You Get Ordained
- Verify Legal Requirements in Your State
One of the first things you should do after ordination is check the legal rules where you live or plan to perform ceremonies. Laws about who can legally officiate weddings differ from state to state and even by county. Some places require ministers to register or file proof of ordination with local officials.
Others may ask for additional paperwork or fees. Contact the county clerk’s office or visit their website to learn the exact rules in your area. Knowing these details will help you avoid any problems when you are ready to officiate a wedding. This step ensures your ceremonies will be legally recognized, which is very important for the couple getting married.
- Obtain Your Ordination Credentials
Once you have completed your ordination, ask for your official documents. These typically include an ordination certificate and, occasionally, a letter of good standing or a minister’s license. These papers prove your legal authority to perform ceremonies and often require you to sign marriage licenses. It is essential to keep your credentials secure and carry copies when officiating weddings or other events. Having these documents on hand also gives you and the couple peace of mind that everything is being done correctly and legally.
- Learn How to Complete Legal Paperwork Properly
Being ordained gives you the right to sign marriage licenses, but you must know how to do this correctly. Every state or county might use different forms and have specific instructions. After the ceremony, the marriage license typically needs to be signed by you, the couple, and witnesses, and then returned to the county clerk’s office within a specified number of days. If the license is not returned on time, the marriage may not be legally recorded. Ensure you understand this process well in advance so that the couple’s marriage can be legally recorded without any issues. Some counties even provide guides or checklists to help officiants complete the paperwork correctly.
- Practice Officiating Ceremonies
Officiating is more than reading a script. It requires confidence, clear speaking, and the ability to lead a meaningful ceremony. After you get ordained, practice is key. Start by creating or finding ceremony scripts online. Practice reading them out loud and try to customize the words to fit the couple’s style or wishes. You can also practice with friends or family members to get comfortable with the flow and receive helpful feedback before the real event.
- Build a Network and Find Opportunities
If you want to officiate weddings or ceremonies regularly, building a network is very useful. Share with friends, family, and community members that you are now an ordained minister. Letting event planners, venues, or community centers know about your availability can help you find chances to officiate. Joining online groups or forums for officiants is another good way to connect, share advice, and discover new opportunities.
- Understand the Different Types of Ceremonies You Can Perform
After ordination, it helps to know that weddings are not the only ceremonies you can lead. You may also be able to perform baptisms, funerals, memorial services, vow renewals, and other spiritual or life ceremonies. Learning about these different types will enable you to offer more support to people in your community and expand the ways you can serve them. This knowledge can also make you feel more confident when asked to officiate a variety of events.
- Continue Your Education and Growth as a Minister
Getting ordained is just the beginning of your journey. It is essential to keep learning and improving your skills. Many online ministries provide resources such as training courses, guides, and tips for new ministers. Enhancing your public speaking skills, understanding various traditions, and learning how to plan ceremonies can significantly impact how you serve others. Staying connected with other ministers or joining supportive communities can also encourage and help you grow.
Bottom Line
After you get ordained, following these steps will help you become a prepared and confident minister. Checking legal rules, getting your credentials, learning paperwork, practicing ceremonies, networking, understanding different ceremony types, and continuing your education all play a role in your success. Whether you plan to officiate weddings, baptisms, or other special events, being ready will make the experience better for you and those you serve. For an easy and trustworthy way to get ordained and receive support, many people choose All Faith Ministry to start their journey.
