Frequently Asked Questions
Is online ordination legal?
Yes. Online ordination is legal in the vast majority of U.S. states. The right of religious organizations to ordain ministers is protected by the First Amendment. Courts have consistently upheld that churches have the sole authority to determine their own criteria for ordination. However, marriage officiation laws are set at the state and county level, so requirements for registering as an officiant vary. We recommend checking with the county clerk’s office where you plan to perform a ceremony.
Can I perform a wedding with this ordination?
In most states, yes. Once ordained, you are authorized to solemnize marriages. Some states and counties require you to register with the county clerk before officiating. A few jurisdictions have additional requirements. Your Letter of Good Standing and credential number (verifiable at eordained.org/verify) will help you satisfy any registration requirements.
Which states might have restrictions?
Marriage laws change, and we recommend always checking with the local county clerk. Historically, Virginia and some counties in Pennsylvania, Tennessee, and South Carolina have scrutinized online ordinations more closely. In those areas, having your Letter of Good Standing and being prepared to show that Enduring Love Church is a legitimate, incorporated religious organization with sincere beliefs can help. We maintain complete records of all ordained ministers, which strengthens the legal standing of your ordination.
Is there a fee to get ordained?
No. Ordination through Enduring Love Church is completely free. We offer the option to make a voluntary donation to support our ministry, but it is never required.
Is this ordination permanent?
Yes. Once ordained, you remain an ordained minister of Enduring Love Church indefinitely, unless you request removal or your ordination is revoked for cause. There are no renewal fees or expiration dates.
What documents will I receive?
After ordination, you will have access to three documents through your personal dashboard:
- Certificate of Ordination — a formal certificate suitable for framing or presenting to officials.
- Letter of Good Standing — a dated letter confirming your active ordination, which county clerks often request.
- Minister Credential Card — a wallet-sized card with your credential number and ordination date.
All documents are generated as PDFs you can download and print at any time.
Can someone verify my ordination?
Yes. Anyone can verify your ordination at eordained.org/verify by entering your credential number or full legal name. This is particularly useful for county clerks, wedding venues, and couples who want to confirm your credentials.
Can I be ordained if I live outside the United States?
Yes, we welcome ministers from anywhere in the world. However, our ordination is granted under U.S. law, and we cannot guarantee that it will be recognized in other countries. If you plan to officiate ceremonies outside the U.S., check with local authorities about their requirements for religious officials.
Do I need to believe in God to be ordained?
Our tenets speak of love as the fundamental principle. We welcome people of all faiths and no faith. We do not require adherence to any specific theology. We ask only that you sincerely commit to kindness and to the belief that love is the whole of it — however you understand those words.
What if my legal name changes after ordination?
Contact us to update your records. We require documentation of the name change (such as a court order or marriage certificate). We will update your minister record and you’ll be able to download new documents with your current legal name.
How do I actually perform a wedding?
The general process is:
- Contact the county clerk’s office in the county where the wedding will take place.
- Ask about any registration requirements for officiants (some counties require pre-registration, others don’t).
- If required, provide your Letter of Good Standing and credential number.
- On the wedding day, conduct the ceremony, then sign the marriage license along with the couple and witnesses.
- Return the signed marriage license to the issuing clerk’s office within the required timeframe (usually 30-90 days depending on the state).
Is Enduring Love Church a real church?
Yes. Enduring Love Church is incorporated as a religious nonprofit in the State of Oregon, holds an EIN from the IRS, and has been granted 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status. We maintain sincere religious beliefs as expressed in our tenets, keep permanent records of all ordained ministers, and provide verifiable credentials.