"legally" solemnizing marriage
I don't know if the requirements vary from state to state but in Ohio, a minister cannot solemnize marriages without a certificate signed by the Secretary of State. In order to obtain the certificate, a minister has to apply, enclose a fee, and include a copy of his or her license or ordination papers. If the organization/church/denomination which ordained the minister is recognized by the state, a certificate is issued. The certificate states that the authority is only valid as long as the minister remains in the group listed on the certificate. "A certificate of every marriage solemnized shall be transmitted by the authorized person solemnizing the marriage, within 30 days after the solemnization to the probate judge of the county where the marriage license was issued."
Some questions on this:
Do you think this is undue government intrusion on a church/minister?
Should we as Christians blindly obey this or should we defy it?
How might this affect your decision to leave or remain with an organization?
How is it handled in your state or country?
__________________
Sam also known as Jim Ellis
Apostolic in doctrine
Pentecostal in experience
Charismatic in practice
Non-denominational in affiliation
Inter-denominational in fellowship
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