Hitching Up with the ULC: Can Online Ministers Marry You in the Peach State?
So, you've found your lobster (or maybe your grits-loving soulmate), and you're ready to tie the knot. But wait! You crave a ceremony that's less stuffy pews and more celebrating under the Georgia sunshine. Enter the Universal Life Church (ULC), the internet's favorite ordination station, and you (along with a million other couples, apparently). But can these online ministers actually make your Georgia wedding legal? Buckle up, lovebirds, because we're about to dive into the holy (or perhaps not-so-holy) matrimony code of Georgia.
Can Universal Life Church Ministers Perform Weddings In Georgia |
The Law Says "Yup, You Can Do That!"
According to Georgia law (cue angelic choir music), a wedding ceremony can be performed by a judge, a justice of the peace, or "a minister or other person of any religious society or sect authorized by the rules of such society to perform the marriage ceremony". That bold part is where the ULC comes in. Since the ULC is considered a religious organization, and their rules allow ordained ministers to officiate weddings, you're good to go!
Hold on, though, before you rush out and get ordained by quoting Star Wars at your computer (it's not a real option, sorry), there are a couple of things to keep in mind.
County Quirks: Not All Courthouses Are Created Equal
While Georgia law allows ULC ministers to officiate weddings, some counties might have additional requirements. It's always best to check with the probate court where you'll be filing your marriage license. They might ask the ULC minister for some documentation, so having a copy of your ordination handy is a good idea.
QuickTip: Pay attention to first and last sentences.
Think of it like showing your hall pass to the teacher of love. They just gotta make sure everything is on the up and up.
Don't Forget the Power of Love (and Following Instructions)
Here's the gist: Getting ordained online through the ULC is free and easy. Once you're ordained, contact the probate court where you'll file the marriage license and find out what they require from the ULC minister. Follow their instructions, and wed away, happy couple!
Frequently Asked Pre-Wedding Jitters
How to get ordained online with the ULC?
Tip: Stop when confused — clarity comes with patience.
The ULC ordination process is a breeze. Head over to their website, and in a few clicks, you'll be a certified minister (virtually, of course).
How much does it cost to get ordained with the ULC?
Nada! Free as a Georgia peach.
Tip: Share this article if you find it helpful.
Do I need to be a resident of Georgia to officiate a wedding there?
Nope! Love knows no state lines (or residency requirements).
Will my friend's ULC ordination from five years ago still be valid?
Reminder: Reading twice often makes things clearer.
Ordinations with the ULC are permanent. Your friend's good to go!
Should I tell my grandma about the online ordination thing?
Up to you! Maybe ease her into the concept with, "Grandma, it's kind of like getting ordained by the internet pope..." We recommend focusing on the love and skipping the technicalities.