Online ordination organizations are becoming more and more prevalent on the Internet. Some are just shame operations while others are legitimate ministries offering an important service. If you want to become ordained online, there are a few important things to consider.

Most people who become ordained online do so for two reasons. Some people feel like they are called to a certain ministry, but they have not had the opportunity to go to a college or seminary and qualify for the ministry with a mainstream religious organization. Money may be a factor as seminary education is very expensive. Some individuals want to start a ministry, and they just don’t fit into the religious ideas of a particular group. This is where online ordination comes in. It provides a credential for those who want to start their own ministry.

Online ordination is also used by those who want to perform a wedding ceremony for a friend or family member. Many states recognize the validity of online ordination.

It is usually a very simple procedure to become ordained online. One of the most popular ordination sites on the Internet only requires that candidates send them their name, address and email address. This organization will then send an email ordination confirmation for free. They do charge for ordination certificates. Many of the Internet sites do charge a small fee for their services. Some of these fees are as little as ten to 25 dollars.

There are a few ordination sites that require the person who wants to be ordained to take a series of courses. These can be quite expense.

What Can and Cannot Be Done With Online Ordination

Those who become ordained online need to be aware of what they can and cannot do with online ordination. Ordination from these sources is not recognized by everyone. For instance, someone who is ordained on the Internet will not be able to work as a chaplain in the Unites States Armed Forces. Hospitals, hospices and nursing facilities will generally not hire a chaplain who has an Internet ordination. These organizations want to hire people who are part of recognized religious groups. Chaplains need a seminary degree.

While most states will recognize the validity of an Internet ordination to perform weddings, some states are beginning to limit this recognition. This is due in part to the fact that some Internet ordination sites have no requirements, and they will ordain anyone. It gives the whole concept a bad reputation in the eyes of the law and the general public. Before you perform a wedding with an Internet ordination, be very careful to check the laws in your state regarding the credentials needed.

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If you are considering an evangelistic ministry, a Bible teaching ministry, or you want to start your own church, online ordination is valid, and it will give you at least some credential with the public.