Get Ordained in Illinois

GET ORDAINED IN ILLINOIS

How do you get ordained in Illinois? Embarking on the journey of ordination can be a deeply rewarding and fulfilling experience for individuals who wish to serve their faith community and officiate sacred ceremonies. If you’re interested in officiating weddings or engaging in other ministerial duties in the state of Illinois, it’s important to understand the process of becoming ordained and the resources available to you.

ILLINOIS' STATE LAW

The Ordination Law in Illinois for Officiating Weddings: In Illinois, the process of becoming an ordained minister is regulated by state law. According to the Illinois Compiled Statutes, Chapter 750, Section 5/209, individuals who have been ordained or designated as ministers of a religious denomination are authorized to solemnize marriages. This includes individuals who have obtained ordination through online ordination programs. As such, there is no requirement to register with any government office as a wedding officiant.

EXPAND YOUR MINISTRY OPPORTUNITY

The officiant is responsible for completing the marriage license in the presence of the couple and any necessary witnesses. Additionally, they must ensure that the couple acknowledges their intent to marry. After the ceremony, the completed marriage license must be filed with the county clerk’s office within a specified timeframe, typically within ten days.

The Christian Leaders Institute (CLI):

We are thrilled to introduce the Christian Leaders Institute, a warm and welcoming online educational platform that provides free ministry and ordination training programs. Our mission is to make theological education accessible to individuals from all backgrounds, empowering them to deepen their understanding of Christianity and prepare for various ministry roles. Our comprehensive courses cover a wide range of subjects, including biblical studies, theology, church history, leadership, and pastoral care.

The Christian Leaders Alliance (CLA):

Through our partnership with the Christian Leaders Alliance, we offer an ordination program for individuals who have completed CLI’s training and courses. The Christian Leaders Alliance has been empowering ministers since 2014 and has ordained thousands of individuals. By joining CLA, you will receive formal recognition and authorization as an ordained minister, allowing you to perform weddings and other religious ceremonies in Illinois, in accordance with state law.

By enrolling in the Christian Leaders Institute and participating in the Christian Leaders Alliance program, you can embark on a path to ordination and expand your ministry opportunities in Illinois.

GET STARTED AT CLI

To enroll in the program, follow these steps:

Create a free study account with the Christian Leaders Institute and get familiar with the Study.christianleaders.org platform.
Enroll in the Christian Wedding Officiant Skills course and commence your training.
After completing the Skills course, you will enroll in the Licensed Christian Wedding Officiant Recognition Class. This class recognizes your online training and completes your ordination into a local geographic endorsement-based ordination credential. You will be listed in the Christian Leaders Alliance Directory, and you may order your ordination credentials. You are eligible to register a local ministry at a Soul Center.

VARIOUS OPPORTUNITIES

Are you looking to expand your ministry in Illinois? Whether you have a desire to become a wedding officiant or explore other ministerial roles, the Christian Leaders Institute (CLI) and Christian Leaders Alliance (CLA) are here to support your journey to ordination and the development of your ministry skills. Let’s explore the exciting possibilities available to you:

Wedding Officiant: Many ministers choose to become wedding officiants. By getting ordained through the Christian Leaders Alliance, you can legally officiate marriages in Illinois and guide couples through this significant milestone.

Field Minister: If you have limited study time but a strong passion for serving in ministry, the Field Minister role is perfect for you. This program offers introductory courses that provide a solid foundation for lay ministers, church elders, and deacons. The Christian Leaders Institute provides free courses and mini-courses to deepen your understanding of ministry and serve your local community.

Licensed Minister: For individuals seeking a more comprehensive training experience, the Licensed Minister role is an excellent choice. This program offers a comprehensive curriculum, including thirteen credits of study and six mini-courses. By completing this program, you will enhance your ministry skills and be better equipped to serve in various roles.

Licensed Coaching Minister: If you are interested in incorporating coaching techniques into your ministry, the Coaching Minister role is tailored to your aspirations. This program includes two free coaching courses, enabling you to provide guidance and support using a coaching approach. With 15 credits and six mini-courses, you will gain the necessary knowledge and skills to minister effectively through coaching.

Licensed Ministry Chaplain: Volunteer chaplains serving in local ministry settings, such as hospitals or correctional facilities, can benefit from the Licensed Ministry Chaplain role. This program requires 18 credits and six mini-courses, equipping you with the tools to provide spiritual care in specific contexts. Getting ordained as a chaplain allows you to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those in need.

Ordained Minister: The Ordained Minister role is highly sought after by individuals already involved in ministry or those seeking comprehensive training and credentials. This program comprises 21 credits and seven mini-courses, offering a comprehensive education to enhance your abilities as a minister. Whether leading a congregation or serving in various capacities, ordination as a minister opens diverse opportunities to make a difference in the state of Illinois.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How is the Christian Leaders Institute funded? Christian Leaders Institute is funded through a “Give It Forward” Approach. Click here to read more.

Can I register my church or religious society under the banner of Christian Leaders Alliance? Yes. Locally registered Soul Centers are being register all over the world. Click here to read more.

Can I receive a College degree after I enroll at Christian Leaders Institute?

At Christian Leaders Institute, our college degrees are offered through our Leadership Excellence School. We provide access to both Associate Degrees and Bachelor Degrees. To begin our degree program, you must first enroll as a student in our School of Christian Development. Every student starts by creating a study account at the Christian Development school. Once you complete the “Getting Started” class, you can proceed to enroll in our Leadership Excellence School, where our degree programs are hosted.. Click here to set up you account.

This degree is ideal for those who desire to pursue their Master’s Degree with one of our partner Seminaries like North Point Bible College and Seminary, Kairos University, Calvin, Western, Northern, and more.

Christian Leaders Institute is your access or gateway many professional ministry opportunity.