Can ministers officiate marriages?
Note: this is not legal advice. First we would like to make it clear that we do not ordain ministers for the ole purpose of officiating marriages, we ordain them to spread the gospel. However, we realize that often ministers are asked to perform weddings. This is perfectly acceptable in their service to God. The answer to the question of officiating marriages depends totally upon the state in the U.S. where the marriage takes place. In many states ordained ministers can marry people; however, the laws vary from state to state. It is the minister’s responsibility to know the expectations of the laws in their state. This link (click here) will provide general information about each state’s expectations, as well as contact information for county clerk’s offices. Click here for additional thoughts about ministers performing marriages …
