Let’s be honest, when you feel a calling to ministry, asking about the salary can feel a bit awkward. But it’s also one of the most practical and important questions you can ask. After all, passion pays the bills, but only when it’s part of a sustainable career. The truth is, there’s no single answer to what a minister makes. The path of a full-time pastor in a traditional church looks very different from that of a freelance wedding officiant building their own business. Earning a living as a minister today is about designing a career that aligns with your spiritual goals and your financial needs. This guide will break down the real numbers, from average salaries to what you can charge per wedding, so you can build a fulfilling career with confidence.
Key Takeaways
- Choose a path that fits your financial goals: A minister's income varies widely, from a structured church salary to the flexible earnings of a freelance wedding officiant, so it's important to decide which model best suits your life.
- Treat your officiating work like a business: To build a successful career as an officiant, you need to think like an entrepreneur, which means learning to market yourself, setting professional rates, and building a network of industry contacts.
- Build multiple income streams for stability: Avoid the feast-or-famine cycle of freelance work by diversifying your offerings; you can supplement wedding income with services like spiritual counseling or public speaking to ensure more consistent cash flow.
How Much Do Ministers Actually Make?
Let’s talk about one of the most common questions people have when considering this path: what does the income of a minister actually look like? The truth is, there’s no single answer. A minister’s earnings can vary dramatically based on their role, location, and experience. For many, ministry isn't just a calling; it's also a career. Understanding the financial side is a practical and necessary step.
Whether you’re looking at a traditional church role or building a business as a wedding officiant, your income potential is influenced by several key factors. A full-time pastor at an established church will have a different financial structure than a freelance minister who officiates ceremonies on weekends. The great thing is that you have the flexibility to design a career that aligns with both your spiritual and financial goals. Let's break down what you can realistically expect and what influences those numbers.
A Look at Average Minister Salaries
When you look up average salaries, you'll often find data focused on traditional clergy roles. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for clergy is around $57,230. This figure is a helpful starting point, but it’s important to remember it’s a national average that includes ministers from every denomination, location, and church size. It represents the middle ground, with half of all clergy earning more and half earning less.
For those of us focused on officiating weddings and other freelance ministry work, this number is more of a reference than a rule. As an independent officiant, you aren't on a set salary. Instead, your income is directly tied to the number of ceremonies you perform and the rates you charge for your services. This gives you more control over your earning potential.
What Influences a Minister's Income?
So, why does that salary number vary so much? Several factors come into play. For ministers in traditional church settings, income is often tied to the size and budget of their congregation. A smaller church may have limited funds, while a larger one can offer a more substantial salary and benefits package. Experience also plays a big role; a minister with decades of experience will typically earn more than someone just starting out.
For freelance ministers, the influences are a bit different. Your income depends heavily on your business skills. Things like marketing yourself effectively, networking with wedding planners, and setting appropriate prices for your services are essential. Your income can also fluctuate seasonally, with wedding season bringing in more work. This path requires an entrepreneurial spirit, but it also offers incredible freedom.
How Location Affects Your Pay
Where you live has a major impact on your earning potential as a minister. A higher cost of living in a major city like San Francisco or New York means salaries and service fees are generally higher to match. Conversely, clergy in smaller, rural towns tend to earn less, but their living expenses are also lower. This geographic difference applies to both traditional pastors and freelance officiants.
As a wedding officiant, you can research your local market to set competitive rates. Understanding what other officiants in your area charge can help you price your services fairly. It’s also crucial to be familiar with the specific requirements in your area, as each state has its own rules. Taking the time to learn the state laws for officiating is a key first step in building a professional and successful practice wherever you are.
Explore Traditional Church Roles
When you think of a minister earning a living, a traditional church role is probably the first thing that comes to mind. For many, this path is a calling that involves leading a congregation, providing spiritual guidance, and managing the day-to-day operations of a church. While this is a well-established route, it’s just one of many ways you can use your ordination to build a career.
These roles can be incredibly fulfilling, offering a deep sense of community and purpose. They often come with a structured salary and benefits, which can provide financial stability. However, they also come with a unique set of expectations and responsibilities that differ quite a bit from freelance ministry work, like officiating weddings. Exploring what these traditional positions entail can help you see the full spectrum of possibilities and decide which direction feels right for you. It’s all about finding the path that aligns with your personal and financial goals.
Full-Time Pastoral Positions
Serving as a full-time pastor means dedicating your career to a single congregation. In this role, your income is typically a salary paid by the church. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for clergy is around $57,230. Of course, this number can swing quite a bit depending on the denomination, the size of the church, and its location. A small, rural church will have a very different budget than a large, urban one. This salary is often supplemented with benefits like a housing allowance or health insurance, which are important factors to consider when looking at the overall compensation package.
Part-Time and Associate Roles
Not every minister in a church setting works full-time. Many congregations hire part-time or associate ministers to lead specific programs, like youth groups, music, or community outreach. These roles are a great way to serve a community without taking on the full responsibilities of a lead pastor. For many, a part-time church position provides a steady, predictable income stream that they can combine with other work, like officiating weddings or offering spiritual counseling. The skills you develop in our wedding officiant training can be just as valuable in these roles, helping you connect with people and lead with confidence.
How Denominations Handle Compensation
Compensation for ministers isn't standardized across the board; it varies significantly from one denomination to another. Some have very structured pay scales based on experience and education, while others leave salary decisions entirely up to the individual church's leadership and budget. This is why you’ll see such a wide range of incomes for clergy members. The financial health of the congregation and the cost of living in the area also play huge roles. Regardless of the pay structure, maintaining a high standard of conduct is essential, which is why we encourage all ministers to follow a professional code of ethics.
What Are the Main Ways Ministers Earn an Income?
When you think about a minister's income, you might picture a traditional salary from a single church. While that’s one path, it’s far from the only one. Many ministers today build a fulfilling career by combining different roles and income sources. Your journey as a minister can be as unique as you are, blending traditional duties with entrepreneurial ventures that fit your skills and passions.
From leading a congregation to officiating a beautiful wedding ceremony, the ways you can serve and earn are incredibly varied. Some ministers find stability in a full-time church position with benefits, while others thrive on the flexibility of freelance work. You can build a business around officiating weddings, offer spiritual counseling, or even lead workshops. The key is understanding all the available options so you can design a career that supports you financially and spiritually. As you explore these paths, the first step is always to apply for ordination to make your work official. Let’s look at the most common ways ministers earn a living.
Congregation Salaries and Benefits
The most traditional way for a minister to earn an income is through a salary from a church or religious organization. On average, a full-time minister in the U.S. earns around $57,230 per year. However, this number can vary quite a bit. Factors like the size and budget of the congregation, its location, and the specific denomination all play a significant role in determining compensation. A minister in a large urban church will likely have a different salary than one in a small rural community. This path typically comes with a structured set of responsibilities, from leading services to providing community support, offering a steady and predictable way to serve.
Housing Allowances and Perks
One of the most significant financial advantages of a traditional church role is the housing allowance. Many churches offer this as part of their compensation package, allowing ministers to receive a portion of their income tax-free to cover housing expenses like rent or a mortgage. This can make a huge difference in your take-home pay and overall financial health. Beyond the housing allowance, many full-time positions also come with other benefits, such as health insurance, retirement plans, and sometimes even a car allowance for travel related to ministry duties. These perks add a layer of financial security that makes a traditional role very appealing.
Officiating Weddings
For many ministers, officiating weddings is a rewarding and profitable venture. With around two million weddings happening in the U.S. each year, there is a constant demand for skilled and heartfelt officiants. Depending on your experience and the services you offer, you can charge anywhere from $150 to $1,000 per ceremony. This path offers incredible flexibility, whether you want to officiate a few weddings a year as a side hustle or build a full-time business. Investing in wedding officiant training can help you master the craft, confidently set your prices, and create unforgettable experiences for couples on their special day.
Freelance Ministry Work
Beyond the church and wedding chapel, there are many other ways to earn an income as a minister. Freelance ministry allows you to use your skills in different settings, such as offering spiritual counseling, leading workshops, public speaking, or writing inspirational content. While some people may feel hesitant about charging for spiritual services, it’s a perfectly valid way to sustain yourself while helping others. This path offers variety and independence, though it may provide less financial stability than a salaried position. Upholding a professional code of ethics is essential as you build trust and credibility in your freelance work.
Turn Wedding Officiating Into a Career
If you’ve ever thought about turning your passion for celebrating love into a career, officiating weddings is a fantastic path. With about two million weddings happening in the U.S. every year, there's a consistent need for skilled and heartfelt officiants. This isn't just a fulfilling calling; it can also be a great source of income. Depending on your location, experience, and the services you offer, you can earn anywhere from $150 to $1,000 per ceremony. It’s a flexible career that allows you to be your own boss while playing a central role in a couple's most important day.
Get Ordained with All Faith Ministry
Your first step is to get legally ordained. This is the official credential that allows you to perform marriage ceremonies. At All Faith Ministry, we make this process straightforward so you can focus on what you do best: connecting with couples and creating beautiful ceremonies. Once you apply for ordination, you’ll have the legal standing you need to start your career. Your success will depend on a few factors, like where you live and how you approach the work, but getting ordained is the essential foundation for everything that follows. It’s the key that opens the door to a rewarding career.
Build Your Wedding Officiant Business
Working as a wedding officiant is essentially running your own small business. As a freelance minister, you have the freedom to set your own schedule and choose the couples you work with, but it also means you need to handle the business side of things. This includes marketing your services, managing your finances, and building a professional reputation. Our comprehensive wedding officiant training is designed to give you the practical skills you need to succeed. We cover everything from writing a compelling ceremony script to creating a simple marketing plan that attracts your ideal clients and keeps your calendar full.
Price Your Ceremony Services
Figuring out what to charge can feel tricky when you're starting out. The best approach is to research what other officiants in your area are charging for similar services. This will help you set rates that are both fair to your clients and properly value your time and expertise. Your prices should reflect the level of personalization you offer, the time you spend preparing, and your travel for rehearsals and the ceremony itself. Operating with integrity is key, which is why we encourage all our ministers to follow our code of ethics to ensure you’re providing professional and transparent service.
Which Freelance Ministry Gigs Pay Best?
Once you're ordained and have experience officiating weddings, you'll find you've developed a unique set of skills that are valuable in many other areas. Your ordination opens doors to a variety of freelance ministry roles that can provide a stable and rewarding income, either as a supplement to your wedding business or as a new focus entirely. These opportunities allow you to use your passion for helping people in different, and often lucrative, ways.
From one-on-one guidance to speaking in front of large groups, your work as a minister can expand far beyond the wedding aisle. Let's look at some of the most promising freelance gigs that can help you build a fulfilling and financially sustainable career.
Spiritual Counseling and Guidance
Many people seek guidance from a spiritual leader they can trust, and as an ordained minister, you are in a prime position to offer that support. Spiritual counseling focuses on helping individuals and couples find meaning, navigate life's challenges, and connect with their inner selves. Unlike therapy, it centers on spiritual well-being. You can offer sessions on topics like premarital counseling, grief support, or general life direction. Sessions can be priced anywhere from $50 to $150, depending on your experience and location. It's a deeply rewarding way to make a difference while earning an income. Upholding a strong code of ethics is crucial to building trust and providing responsible care.
Public Speaking and Workshops
If you love the public speaking aspect of officiating, you can turn that talent into a significant income stream. Organizations, community groups, and even corporations often hire speakers for events, and your experience as a minister gives you credibility on topics like leadership, communication, and building strong relationships. A single speaking engagement can pay between $500 and $5,000. You can also design and lead your own workshops, either in person or online. Think about creating a workshop on crafting personal vows or a seminar on public speaking for beginners. The skills you gain from our wedding officiant training provide a fantastic foundation for these kinds of events.
Digital Ministry and Online Services
The internet allows you to connect with people far beyond your local community. Building a digital ministry means you can offer your services to a global audience. This could include providing virtual spiritual counseling sessions, officiating weddings over video conference where legally permitted, or hosting online workshops and webinars. You can also create a blog, podcast, or YouTube channel focused on topics you're passionate about, which can be monetized through ads, sponsorships, or donations. A strong online presence is key, so start with a professional website and social media profiles where people can learn about your services and easily contact you.
Writing and Creating Content
Your experience writing wedding ceremonies, sermons, and vows is a valuable skill. You can channel this into writing books, ebooks, or articles for spiritual publications. Another great option is to create digital products that you can sell directly to your audience. For example, you could develop a collection of ceremony scripts, a guide to writing personal vows, or a premarital counseling workbook. These products can generate passive income, meaning they continue to earn money long after you've created them. You can see examples of helpful resources by visiting the AFM Store, which can give you ideas for products you could create for your own audience.
Skills That Increase Your Earning Potential
Your calling is the foundation of your ministry, but building a sustainable career also requires a practical set of skills. Honing these abilities won't just help you earn a better living; it will also deepen your impact and allow you to serve your community more effectively. Think of it as investing in yourself so you can better support others on their most important days. By developing a few key competencies, you can confidently grow your ministry from a passion project into a fulfilling profession.
Business and Marketing Basics
Many ministers feel hesitant about charging for what they see as spiritual work, but running a successful ministry means treating it like a business. Learning the fundamentals of marketing and finance doesn't take away from your calling; it ensures you can continue doing the work you love. Start by creating a simple website, defining your services, and setting clear, fair prices. Understanding your value is key. Our wedding officiant training can help you get comfortable with the business side of officiating, from contracts to marketing yourself.
Counseling and Leadership Training
As a minister, you often step into people's lives during significant moments that can be both joyful and stressful. Developing your counseling and leadership skills can make a world of difference. Extra training in areas like pre-marital guidance or conflict resolution can help you offer more comprehensive support to couples. These abilities build trust and demonstrate a deeper level of care, making your services more valuable. Many successful ministry careers are built on a foundation of strong interpersonal skills that go beyond the ceremony itself.
Public Speaking and Communication
Clear and confident communication is at the heart of ministry. Whether you're officiating a wedding, leading a workshop, or meeting with a couple for the first time, your ability to connect with people is essential. Great public speaking is more than just reading a script; it’s about telling a story, conveying emotion, and making everyone in the room feel included. Honing these skills will help you create memorable ceremonies and build a reputation that leads to more referrals. Strong communication is one of the most useful skills you can develop.
Tech and Digital Ministry Skills
In a connected world, having a digital presence is non-negotiable. A professional website is your digital storefront, a place where potential clients can learn about you, see your work, and read testimonials. Using social media can help you build a community and share your message with a wider audience. You can also use technology to offer virtual services, like online consultations or even remote ceremonies, depending on your local regulations. Be sure to check the specific state laws to understand what’s permitted in your area.
Common Financial Hurdles for Ministers
Earning a living as a minister is incredibly rewarding, but it comes with a unique set of financial challenges. If you’ve ever felt stressed about money, you’re not alone. Many ministers, especially those just starting out, find themselves facing a few common hurdles on the path to building a stable career. The good news is that these obstacles are entirely manageable with a bit of foresight and planning.
Thinking like an entrepreneur is a huge part of creating a sustainable ministry. Whether you’re officiating weddings on the side or building a full-time career, understanding the financial side of your work is just as important as honing your spiritual practice. Let’s walk through some of the most common financial hurdles you might encounter and talk about how you can approach them with confidence. Recognizing these challenges is the first step toward building a career that not only fulfills your calling but also supports your life.
Managing Inconsistent Income
If you’re a freelance wedding officiant, your income can feel like a rollercoaster. You might be busy every weekend during the peak wedding season from May to October, but what about the slower winter months? This "feast or famine" cycle makes budgeting a real challenge. The key to smoothing out these financial bumps is planning ahead. Create a budget based on your annual, not monthly, income. During your busy season, make it a priority to set aside a portion of your earnings to cover your expenses during quieter periods. This financial cushion will give you peace of mind and prevent stress when bookings naturally slow down.
Overcoming a Lack of Business Experience
Most people are drawn to ministry because they want to help others, not because they love spreadsheets and marketing plans. It’s completely normal to feel like you’re missing the business gene. However, when you work for yourself, you are the CEO, the marketing department, and the accountant all in one. Developing some basic business skills is essential for turning your passion into a viable career. Our wedding officiant training is designed to help you build a solid foundation, covering everything from marketing your services to managing your finances. Viewing yourself as a professional is the first step to building a successful practice.
Balance Your Calling with Financial Needs
It can feel strange to mix money with ministry. Your work is a calling, a way to bring joy and meaning to people’s lives. But at the end of the day, you also have bills to pay. It’s important to find a healthy balance between your spiritual purpose and your financial reality. Remember, being financially stable doesn’t diminish your calling; it supports it. When you aren’t worried about making ends meet, you have more energy and focus to dedicate to the couples you serve. Upholding professional standards, including financial integrity, is a core part of our Code of Ethics and helps ensure you can continue your work for years to come.
Handle the Stigma of Charging for Services
Asking for payment for something as sacred as a wedding ceremony can feel uncomfortable. Many ministers struggle with this, worried it might seem transactional or impersonal. It helps to reframe your thinking. You aren’t charging for the spiritual element of the ceremony; you’re charging for your professional expertise, time, and preparation. You pour hours into crafting a personalized ceremony, communicating with the couple, and leading their special day. Your fee reflects that dedicated work and the value you provide. Charging a fair rate for your services is a form of self-respect that allows you to sustain your ministry and continue serving your community.
How to Diversify Your Ministry Income
Relying on a single source of income can be stressful, especially when you’re just starting out. That’s why building multiple income streams is a smart strategy for long-term financial health and peace of mind. For ministers, this means looking beyond a traditional church salary and thinking creatively about how your skills can serve others. By combining different types of work, from officiating ceremonies to creating digital resources, you can build a more stable and resilient financial foundation.
This approach allows you to lean on different income sources as seasons change. For example, wedding season might be incredibly busy, while other months might be perfect for focusing on writing or workshops. Diversifying isn't just about making more money; it's about creating a sustainable career that supports you while you do the work you love. It gives you the freedom to pursue different passions within your ministry and reduces the pressure on any single role to provide for all your needs. This flexibility is key to building a fulfilling and lasting career as a minister.
Create Multiple Revenue Streams
One of the best ways to create financial stability is to stop thinking in terms of a single job and start building several revenue streams. Ministers have the flexibility to earn income from many different avenues, whether they work within a traditional church or as independent officiants. You might combine a part-time church role with freelance work, or you could build a business entirely around your independent ministry services.
The key is to find a mix that works for you. For many, officiating weddings is a fantastic and rewarding place to start. Our wedding officiant training can give you the skills and confidence to perform beautiful ceremonies. From there, you can add other services like spiritual counseling, workshops, or public speaking to create a varied and dependable income.
Explore Gig Work for Flexibility
If you need to supplement your income without committing to a full-time position, gig work offers incredible flexibility. Many ministers take on side jobs to support their families, allowing them to continue their ministry work while meeting their financial goals. Officiating weddings is a popular choice because it’s often weekend-focused, pays well, and is deeply rewarding.
You can take on as many or as few ceremonies as your schedule allows, making it a perfect fit around other commitments. Getting started is straightforward. Once you apply for ordination, you can begin marketing your services and booking clients. This kind of flexible work empowers you to stay in control of your schedule and your income, all while being part of a couple’s most important day.
Build Passive Income with Digital Products
While freelance work offers flexibility, the income can sometimes be inconsistent. Creating digital products is an excellent way to generate passive income, which means you can earn money even when you’re not actively working. Think about resources you could create once and sell repeatedly, like pre-marital counseling workbooks, ceremony script templates, or e-books on relationship building.
These products provide continuous value to your audience and a steady stream of revenue for you. For independent ministers, this can be a game-changer, smoothing out the financial ups and downs of freelance life. You can sell these products through your own website or on platforms that reach a wider audience. Take a look at our AFM Store for inspiration on products that support your ministry.
Use Seasonal Opportunities
Leaning into seasonal demand is a great way to increase your earnings. Wedding season, typically from late spring to early fall, is a prime opportunity for officiants. With millions of weddings happening in the U.S. each year, there is a consistent need for qualified ministers to lead these ceremonies. Depending on your location and experience, you can earn anywhere from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars per wedding.
By marketing your services ahead of peak season, you can fill your calendar and make a significant portion of your annual income in just a few months. Before you start, it’s a good idea to get familiar with your state’s specific requirements for marriage officiants. You can find helpful information by reviewing the state laws to ensure every ceremony you perform is legally sound.
Market Your Ministry Services Effectively
Once you’re ordained and ready to perform ceremonies, the next step is letting people know you exist. Marketing your services isn’t about being pushy or salesy; it’s about connecting with the people who need you. For many independent ministers, especially those focusing on weddings, building a reputation is the key to creating a sustainable career. Think of it as building a bridge between your calling and the couples you’re meant to serve.
A thoughtful marketing strategy helps you stand out and attract the right clients. It involves creating a professional online presence, building relationships with other industry professionals, defining what makes your services unique, and becoming a trusted member of your community. By focusing on these areas, you can create a steady stream of opportunities and turn your ministry into a fulfilling profession. Our wedding officiant training covers the business side of things to help you get started on the right foot.
Build Your Online Presence
In a world where couples plan their entire weddings online, your digital presence is your storefront. Start with a simple, professional website that showcases who you are and what you offer. Include beautiful photos, testimonials from happy couples, a clear list of your services, and an easy way for people to contact you. This is your home base. From there, use social media to tell your story. Platforms like Instagram and Facebook are perfect for sharing moments from ceremonies (with permission, of course) and connecting with potential clients. A strong online presence builds trust and makes it easy for couples to find and hire you.
Network and Get Referrals
The wedding industry is built on relationships. You’ll find that some of your best clients come from referrals from other wedding professionals. Make an effort to connect with wedding planners, photographers, venue coordinators, and DJs in your area. These vendors are often the first people couples book, and they’re always looking for reliable officiants to recommend. Attend local wedding fairs, join online groups for vendors, and introduce yourself. Building a strong network of partners who trust your work is one of the most effective ways to grow your business. Upholding a professional code of ethics will ensure these relationships are strong and lasting.
Find Your Niche
Instead of trying to be the perfect officiant for everyone, consider specializing. Finding a niche helps you stand out in a crowded market and attract couples who are looking for exactly what you offer. Perhaps you have a passion for crafting unique, non-traditional ceremonies, or maybe you excel at interfaith weddings. You could specialize in adventure elopements, bilingual services, or ceremonies for LGBTQ+ couples. Think about what makes you unique and what you enjoy most. By focusing on a specific area, you become the go-to expert, which allows you to connect more deeply with your clients and build a memorable brand.
Engage with Your Community
While an online presence is crucial, don’t underestimate the power of local connections. Become a familiar, trusted face in your community. You can do this by partnering with local businesses, like bridal boutiques or jewelers, for cross-promotional events. Consider offering to speak at local community gatherings or workshops for engaged couples. The goal is to build relationships and establish yourself as a local authority. When people in your community think of a wedding officiant, you want your name to be the first one that comes to mind. Your journey begins when you apply for ordination and become a recognized minister.
Related Articles
- 5 Ways to Turn Your Ordination Into Income
- How to Earn a Steady Income as a Wedding Officiant
- How to Become an Ordained Minister: A Simple Guide
- Marriage Celebrant Salary: The Ultimate 2025 Guide
- Wedding Officiant Career | Jobs, Income & Growth Potential
Frequently Asked Questions
What's a realistic income for a new wedding officiant? When you're just starting, a realistic fee is typically between $150 and $300 per ceremony. This rate reflects that you're building your experience and portfolio. As you gain more confidence, collect positive reviews, and become more skilled at personalizing ceremonies, you can comfortably increase your rates. Experienced officiants in high-demand areas often charge $500 to $1,000 or more, so there is plenty of room to grow.
Do I need a theology degree to get ordained and earn money? No, you don't need a formal seminary or theology degree to become an ordained minister and officiate weddings. The essential requirement is to be legally ordained through a recognized organization. For a career as a wedding officiant, practical skills in public speaking, writing, and client management are far more critical than a traditional academic background in theology.
How do I find my first few clients as a wedding officiant? A great way to start is by letting your personal network of friends and family know about your new service; your first ceremony might be for someone you already know. At the same time, build a simple, professional website with photos and a description of your services. You can also introduce yourself to local wedding planners and photographers, as they are often a fantastic source of referrals for new officiants.
Can I really make a good side income just officiating on weekends? Absolutely. Officiating weddings is an ideal side hustle because most ceremonies take place on weekends, so it can easily fit around a Monday to Friday job. Even performing just one or two weddings a month can provide a significant income supplement. It offers a flexible way to earn money doing something truly meaningful without the commitment of a full-time position.
What is the most important first step to start earning money as a minister? Your foundational first step is to get legally ordained. This is the official credential that authorizes you to perform marriage ceremonies and is the non-negotiable starting point for any professional ministry work. Without ordination, you cannot legally sign a marriage license, so securing it is the key that opens the door to every other opportunity.
