Expert: Bruce Gourley - 2/3/2010

Question
Hello,

I just have a quick question about my 'license' to the Gospel ministry. I was licensed by a small CBA church in CA in 2002. I have been out of vocational ministry since 2003 and the church that licensed me, no longer exists. So I guess my question is am I still licensed to marry and such. I have a certificate, but the church that issued it, no longer exists. Thanks in advance.

Answer
In general, your licensing as a Baptist preacher is not dependent upon the continued existence of the licensing church. However, the real question has to do with the particular state in which you are living and ministering. Different states have differing requirements in terms of who is qualified to perform weddings, for example. You will need to research the particular requirements of your particular state.