I am ordained by the Universal Life Church. I sought ordination because I was doing a lot of spiritual counseling. My ordination protects me legally. I do not, never have, and never will charge for my services. Even if I were to start doing weddings, I would not request a fee. A donation would be nice, but not required.
I use to participate in the ULC.net forum often. I was on there almost all of my free time several years ago. It's where I offered my support, knowledge and love to anyone who needed it. Yesterday I checked the board, something I haven't done in a long time, and I replied to one post with just a link to information someone was looking for. But another long-time member saw my post and commented that they had missed me. I received this lovely email today, and it's certainly brightened my day and shows exactly why I am Pagan clergy. If gratitude is the currency of my ministry, then I suppose I'll gladly admit I'm in it for that payment!
One of my long term friends on the board, Rev. Dave, sent me this message today.
I don't know if I ever told you how much it meant to me when my granddaughter got scalded and you were the first one on these boards to offer, not only your moral support, but herbal advice, and help in knowing what to expect from DHS. You really helped us during a tough time. Thank you so much!That is why I am Rev. Robin LC. To help others however I can. I don't want money, I don't want to "know it all." I do it because I have a need to help my fellow man.
I hope articles like Ms. Castellano's does not push people away who need help from Pagan clergy. Pagan clergy have a genuine desire to help people. We spend our time learning new things because we wish to be prepared in the event that knowledge would be useful in our ministry. Unlike mainstream religious ministers, we have people from all walks of life come to us. Not being educated on other faiths could be the difference between talking someone off a ledge or not being able to help.
