Frequently Asked Questions
- What church were you ordained through, and when were you ordained?
- I was ordained through the Universal Life Church of Modesto, California, on January 17th, 2001. I was ordained by the ULC prior to that, however they changed their by-laws, and I re-registered with them. My original ordination dates back to 1991.
- Do you have a church or congregation?
- I attend The United Church of Winchester in Winchester, NH. There, I am very involved in worship planning, helping out our pastor, working with the children, and doing other assorted duties as they come up.
- Have you had any training or experience?
- Yes! I have taken courses on wedding planning, and I have extensive religious training. I have performed several weddings in the past few years, ranging from civil, non-religious ceremonies, right up to a full Handfasting. I have also been lucky enough to perform non-traditional unions for gays and lesbians, although at the time, those marriages were not legal. Currently, I have just finished the first of two years of Seminary at The New Seminary of NYC.
- What are your fees?
- Please look at my fees page for more information on how much I charge.
- Do you charge for other services, like baby blessings or funerals?
- Because I consider baby blessings and funerals, and other services like them, to be strictly religious and spiritual activities, I do not charge for them. However, I do ask that the people involved purchase any and all items needed (such as candles, incense, etc.), as well as pay for my transportation to and from the ceremony. I will accept, but certainly don't demand or expect, a donation for my time and effort.
- Where can you do weddings?
- I am authorized to perform weddings in most States, and some protectorates. Some States require registration in advance, or payment of a fee in order to perform a marriage as an out-of-state minister, and so I need at least 3 months lead-time for any out-of-state weddings. This allows me to complete any paperwork required by the State in which I will be officiating. Most States are quite lax, and require only that you be ordained by a recognized church, which the ULC most definitely is. However, certain States have special requirements, or recognize only some clergy. Each county has different rules, and it is my job as minister to verify that I follow all local laws, and let you know the results. To date, I have had no problems at all performing ceremonies in any State.
- How can I check on your credentials?
- You can check on my credentials at any time, by contacting the Universal Life Church at:
ULC International Headquarters
601 Third Street
Modesto CA 95351
Phone: (209)527-8111
Fax: (209) 527-8116
Email: generalcontact@ulchq.comLast updated: July 12th, 2010