Get ordained in Pennsylvania

GET ORDAINED IN PENNSYLVANIA

Are you interested in expanding your ministry in Pennsylvania? Whether you want to become a wedding officiant or explore other ministerial roles, the Christian Leaders Institute (CLI) and Christian Leaders Alliance (CLA) can help you get ordained and develop your ministry skills.

PENNSYLVANIA'S STATE LAW

If you’re considering becoming a wedding officiant in Pennsylvania, it’s important to understand the laws and requirements that govern this role. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

Legal Authority: In Pennsylvania, wedding ceremonies can be solemnized by religious officials who are recognized and in good standing with their respective religious organizations. This includes ordained ministers who have undergone the necessary ordination process and are affiliated with a recognized religious organization. Christian Leaders Alliance is a recognized religious organization.
Self-Uniting Marriage Officiants: Pennsylvania also recognizes a non-religious or secular officiant known as a “Self-Uniting Marriage Officiant.” This type of officiant can legally solemnize marriages without the need for a religious affiliation. Self-Uniting Marriage Officiants are allowed under the Quaker tradition but can be utilized by anyone who prefers a non-religious ceremony.
Online-Only-Ordained Ministers: While online ordination has gained popularity in recent years, it’s important to note that the recognition of online-ordained ministers in Pennsylvania can be subject to certain limitations and restrictions. It’s advisable to check with the local marriage licensing authority or county clerk’s office regarding the acceptance of online-only-ordained ministers in your specific jurisdiction.
Marriage License Requirements: Before a wedding ceremony can take place, the couple must obtain a valid marriage license from the county clerk’s office in the county where the marriage will occur. The officiant is responsible for ensuring that the couple meets all the legal requirements for obtaining the marriage license.
Ceremony Guidelines: When performing a wedding ceremony, it’s essential to adhere to the guidelines set forth by Pennsylvania law. This includes ensuring that the couple, witnesses (if required), and the officiant sign the marriage license and that it is filed with the appropriate county office within a specified timeframe after the ceremony.
Legal Obligations: As a wedding officiant, you have a legal obligation to perform your duties in accordance with the law. It’s important to familiarize yourself with the specific legal requirements and obligations associated with solemnizing marriages in Pennsylvania to ensure that the marriages you officiate are legally valid.

EXPAND YOUR MINISTRY OPPORTUNITY

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 Pennsylvania, in accordance with state law.

By enrolling in the Christian Leaders Institute and participating in the Christian Leaders Alliance program, you will join a vibrant and compassionate community of fellow ministers. We are here to support, encourage, and walk alongside you on your ministry journey in Pennsylvania. Our warm and inclusive atmosphere will ensure that you feel welcomed and valued as you pursue your calling.

Together, let’s embrace the beauty of serving others in the great state of Pennsylvania. Take the first step towards ordination and expand your ministry opportunities by joining the Christian Leaders Institute and Christian Leaders Alliance today.

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

Wedding Officiant: Becoming a wedding officiant is a popular choice. By getting ordained through the Christian Leaders Alliance, you can legally solemnize marriages in Pennsylvania and guide couples through this important milestone.
Field Minister: If you have limited study time but a strong desire to serve 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 in-depth 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 have an interest 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.

This program offers a multitude of ministry opportunities, and getting ordained in Pennsylvania through the Christian Leaders Alliance can help you fulfill your calling. Whether you aspire to become a wedding officiant, a Field Minister, a Licensed Minister, a Coaching Minister, a Licensed Ministry Chaplain, or an Ordained Minister, there’s a pathway available for you. Expand your knowledge, develop your skills, and unlock your ministry potential to serve and make a positive impact in Pennsylvania. Start your journey today with Christian Leaders Alliance and Christian Leaders Institute.

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.