Frequently Asked Questions (F.A.Q.)

Q.  What is the difference between your ministry and ministries that will ordain you "online"... with a certificate I can print on my printer?

A.   Well basically we do ordain you online. When you leave your name and address on our website we immediately send you a short application, important information about your ordination and other things we offer, and copies of our newsletters. Our ordination documents are printed on quality parchment paper, signed with original signatures, bearing the gold seal and red and blue ribbons of our ministry and just plain look great!

Q.    How long before I will receive your applications, newsletter and more information after I leave my name and address with you?

A.    We usually have your packet in the mail the day you leave your name and mailing address.  If you leave your name and address on our site in the evening your packet will be placed in the mail early the next morning.

Q.   After sending in an application how long before I receive my ordination documents?

A.    We try to have your application processed one or two days after we receive it.  If a large volume of mail arrives just ahead of your application it could be a few more days.  You may also FAX or call in your application.  Information about how to do that will be sent along with your packet of information.  FAXed or called in applications are processed the same day and your package will be placed in the mail the next day.

Q.    When I send for information do you put my name and address on a mailing list that you give out to other ministry's or sell?

A.    NEVER!!  We NEVER NEVER give out or sell the names and addresses of the people that request information from us, or the people that we ordain.

Q.    Why do you make ordination so simple?

A.    We believe it is Biblical and that it's one of the best ways to serve (and spread) the Christian Faith.

Q.    Will my new ministry be recognized by the government?

A.    In the USA there is separation of church and state.  No part of the government has the authority to recognize one denomination over another, or a newly established denomination over an established one. (see the laws, and court decision on our Religious Freedom page).  You and the ministry that ordained you decide if you can be a church or ministry, not the government.

Q.    Is it hard to perform wedding ceremonies in my state?

A.    No, most states make it very simple for any ordained clergy to perform weddings.  A few require that you file a copy of your ordination credentials first.  If you would like information about doing weddings in your state, feel free to give us a call, (559) 297-4271, we are always happy to hear from you and answer your questions.

Doing weddings is a wonderful experience.  When World Christianship began (over 20 years ago) we performed a couple of thousand wedding ceremonies in a five year period.  At one point our wedding services even attracted the attention of the San Jose Mercury and News, a major newspaper published near San Francisco, California.  They were kind enough to do a wonderful article on our ministry's wedding services, even going so far as to point out that a local judge said they were perfectly legal.  For those of you wishing to do weddings we recommend our handbook entitled "The Marriage Ministers Handbook" which was written based on our own wedding experiences.

Q.    If I have questions after being ordained can I contact you?

A.    We are always here to answer your questions.  You can feel free to contact us at any time.  We are happy to offer advice.  The best way to contact us is by phone, we welcome your calls.  However, E-Mail and letters are welcome also. Again our phone number is (559) 297-4271.

Q.    What makes your ordination program different from others?

A.    We are a Christian ministry only and only ordain Christian clergy.

Q.    What authority do you give to the people you ordain?

A.    We give you all the authority necessary to establish your new ministry.  We empower you with the authority of ordination, and the authority to perform all Christian services including the rites of marriage and baptism.  You will have the same legal authotity as any clergy of any denomination.

Q.    Do I need to be Ordained or Licensed or both?

A.    Ordination by World Christianship Ministries gives you full authority to do all Christian services, and take your ministry in whatever Christian direction you feel appropriate.  Generally licensing gives you whatever authority the church or ministry wishes to give and they can take back your licensing for whatever reason they wish.  Licensing is not necessary if you have the full authority of ordination.

Q.    Does World Christianship Ministries offer the honorary Doctor of Divinity certificate?

A.     Yes, we do offer the honorary Doctor of Divinity certificate to honor you for your Christian service.  We also offer the Pastoral Counselor certificate. Information about these certificates can be found in the packet of information that we mail to you.