Researched and updated by the ordination experts at the Universal Life Church on
Looking to get ordained in North Carolina? In this guide, we'll walk you through each step of the process and talk about the many advantages of being an ordained minister. As you probably know, it wasn't so long ago that becoming a minister meant a lengthy formal schooling process (which didn't come cheap, by the way). Not only that, but certain segments of the population were frequently excluded due to their immutable characteristics.
But online ordination with the Universal Life Church flipped that script on its head. The ULC has proudly dismantled those historic barriers to participation in ministry by pioneering a new online model for ordination that allows anyone who feels so-called to get ordained. And the best part? Ordination is free, and the process can be done 100% online.
The warm, friendly welcome that North Carolinians are known for can be considered a perfect example of "to do that which is right." With that in mind, it makes sense that so many people in the Tar Heel State identify with the beliefs of the ULC and choose to get ordained.
Below, we'll explain how online ordination works, the different ways it can be put to use, and (of course) show you have to become a minister in North Carolina!
1. Fill Out Your North Carolina Ordination Application
Getting ordained with the Universal Life Church Ministries is a straightforward process. All that's needed is to fill out a brief form on our website, press submit, and your ordination will be instantly processed. Once you see your digital ordination credentials pop up, it's official: you're now a minister! You'll also get an email from us confirming your ordination, so keep an eye on your inbox. When you're ready to get started, hit the button below!
You might be thinking: "why is ULC ordination this simple?" The answer stems from our guiding philosophy: that everyone should have the opportunity to follow their own spiritual path, wherever that may lead. Faith is inherently unique to each individual – and because it's so personal, it can mean different things to different people. Unlike traditional religious organizations that impose their views top-down on members, the ULC takes a different approach. We believe that anyone who feels so-called should be able to pursue their faith journey in the way that makes the most sense to them. And empowering folks to do this begins with an ordination process that is accessible to everyone.
2. Get Your Ordination Certificate
Once you have your online ordination, securing a physical copy of your credentials is recommended. No matter what services or ceremonies you hope to perform as a minister, it's crucial to gather all the requisite materials and paperwork to ensure that you are prepared for anything! Here are the items we see requested most-often by our ministers in North Carolina.
If these selections don't align with your goals, don’t worry! You're welcome to browse through our comprehensive inventory of ministry essentials to find exactly what you need.
Become a Wedding Officiant in North Carolina
Among the many reasons that people choose to get ordained online is to officiate legal wedding ceremonies. Every year, ULC ministers perform scores of successful wedding ceremonies all across North Carolina. Some people become a minister just to perform a wedding for a friend or family member, but many members of the ULC have gone on to start careers as professional wedding officiants in North Carolina!
One day you might find yourself being asked by a couple to officiate their Christian wedding ceremony in Durham. The next day you might be asked to officiate at a Buddhist wedding ceremony at The Biltmore Estate!
If you think officiating a wedding could be in your future, you'll want to get up to speed on the rules and requirements for doing so in North Carolina. As marriages are legal ceremonies, it's important to follow the correct processes in order for the wedding to be recognized.
As these rules vary from place to place, once you know where the ceremony will be held, you should read up on the requirements in that area to make sure you know what's required to officiate. To learn more, check out our step-by-step guide on how to perform a wedding in North Carolina.
What Can You Do With Your Ordination in North Carolina?
Getting ordained is only the beginning of this journey! Once your ordination is confirmed, you will have all types of doors open to you. As an ordained minister, you can perform a wide range of religious ceremonies in the state -- from Wilmington to Greensboro and everywhere in between.
We've heard from many of our members in North Carolina who have even proceeded to start their own churches! To learn more about the possibilities available to ULC ministers, please visit the Minister Training Center.
What Ordination Means in North Carolina
The concept of ordination exists across many different belief systems, and has been practiced for centuries. This formal act of consecration confers upon individuals the power of leadership status within a religious organization. With this status typically comes the authority to perform clergy duties, such as performing ceremonies.
The process itself can differ markedly from one religious tradition to another, but every faith system has its own specific methods for ordaining members. Historically, there were plenty of barriers to becoming ordained. To even be considered for clergyhood, members typically had to study for years, pay for expensive schooling, and pass numerous tests. Ordination also meant conforming to the standards set by church, no matter how strict or how well they aligned with one's personal identity or views.
The ULC views this traditional style of ordination as archaic, unfair, and most of all, exclusionary. That's why we've reimagined the ordination process from the ground up, pioneering a new online model that allows anyone who feels so-called to become a minister.
Furthermore, getting ordained via the Universal Life Church Ministries bestows upon you the same authority and rights under the law that apply to ministers of more traditional faith backgrounds. With the power of the Constitution at their side, ULC ministers in North Carolina have the privilege of performing duties that were historically reserved only for members of the clergy from traditional faith institutions.
Why ULC Ordinations Are Valid in North Carolina
The Universal Life Church Ministries is an established organization in good standing in North Carolina, meaning that all ordinations conferred by the ULC are valid there. Our ministers enjoy the authority to carry out all the duties performed by other clergy members, including the power to officiate legal wedding ceremonies.
Is it Legal to Get Ordained Online in North Carolina?
Yes! Ensuring the protection of religious freedom for all individuals, the First Amendment of the Constitution guarantees this right throughout the United States, irrespective of one's faith or manner of observance. As per its procedures, the ULC has legally ordained thousands of ministers online in North Carolina. These conscientious and insightful ministers actively engage in conducting various services and ceremonies within their local communities on a regular basis.
The ULC advocates for the belief that anyone who feels a spiritual calling, regardless of their specific beliefs, should have the opportunity to access ordination and the ability to navigate their own spiritual path. We simply require our ministers to adhere to two guiding principles:
Do that which is right, and
Every individual is free to practice their religion in the manner of their choosing, so long as that expression does not impinge upon the rights or freedoms of others and is in accordance with the government's laws.
How Long Does it Take to Get Ordained in North Carolina?
Wondering about the timeline for becoming ordained? Well, it hinges on the avenue you opt for. At the ULC, we are committed to making ordination easily attainable for those who feel called toward that rite. Hence, we've developed a user-friendly online platform for ordination applications. Ordinations appropriately sought through the ULC are promptly reviewed, often leading to swift approval. As a result, we have officially ordained thousands of ministers in North Carolina who make noteworthy contributions to their communities every day.
If you're contemplating joining our community, we'd be delighted to welcome you aboard.
How Much Does it Cost to Get Ordained in North Carolina?
The avenue you select for ordination dictates the financial obligations involved. Enrolling in a traditional seminary or religious graduate program often demands significant tuition fees, running into thousands of dollars. From its inception, the Universal Life Church (ULC) has been steadfast in its commitment to ensuring ordination remains accessible to all, irrespective of financial circumstances. This commitment stems from our belief in providing equal opportunities to individuals answering the call to serve. Consequently, online ordination through the ULC is entirely cost-free.
This inclusive approach has empowered numerous individuals, who may have otherwise been deterred by financial constraints, to pursue ordination and make meaningful contributions to themselves and their communities. While a small fee is requested from ministers opting for physical supplies or credential copies to offset associated costs, the online ordination process itself carries no charges and is open to everyone.
How Can You Get Ordained in North Carolina for Free?
As stated above, online ordination with the ULC is always free of charge! If you are feeling called toward online ordination and haven't started that process just yet, please just scroll up to the first step on this page and tap the big blue button to start your ordination application and the next big journey in your life!
Do you have to be a resident of North Carolina?
An online minister ordination from the ULC is not itself tied to any one state, meaning that you only need to get ordained once and that ordination itself is valid no matter where in the country you happen to be.
You should be aware that different states do sometimes have different regulations for how certain ceremonies, like weddings, are meant to be performed - so prior to performing any ceremony with legal importance we always suggest that you contact the government office that will be implementing the results of that ceremony ahead of time to ensure that you have all of the paperwork you'll need.
How Old Do You Have to Be to Get Ordained in North Carolina
The Universal Life Church requires that all those who apply for online ordination be at least 18 years of age or older. This age restriction, along with other policies and procedures related to the ordination process, are made clear as you are completing the application form. Any ordination application that is made under false pretenses or in violation of our terms and conditions will be automatically considered void, and we will not be able to defend the legitimacy of any ordination granted under false pretenses or otherwise in violation of our guidelines.
Interested in Performing a North Carolina wedding?
