Ordinations
Ordination within HeartStone Ministry is a formal recognition of ethical responsibility, preparation, and commitment to serving others through care, ceremony, and presence.
We understand ordination not as a status or belief, but as a public trust—one that carries responsibility toward individuals, communities, and the integrity of the ministry itself.
Our Understanding of Ordination
HeartStone Ministry approaches ordination as a humanist and pluralistic practice rooted in service, accountability, and formation. Ordination affirms an individual’s readiness to hold space for others during significant moments of life with care, respect, and ethical awareness.
Ordained ministers of HeartStone are entrusted to serve without coercion, doctrine, or hierarchy, honoring the dignity and autonomy of those they support.
The Purpose of Ordination
Ordination exists to ensure that those who officiate ceremonies, provide pastoral presence, or represent the ministry do so with preparation and responsibility.
Through ordination, HeartStone Ministry seeks to:
- Establish ethical standards for ministry practice
- Provide accountability and oversight
- Support thoughtful formation and learning
- Affirm commitment to care, inclusion, and integrity
- Protect the trust placed in ministers by individuals and communities
Ordination is not granted casually, nor is it intended as a symbolic title.
Who Ordination Is For
Ordination through HeartStone Ministry may be appropriate for individuals who seek to serve as:
- Celebrants and officiants
- Providers of ceremonial leadership
- Ministers offering care, presence, and ethical support
- Individuals called to hold space for life’s transitions
Ordination is inclusive and does not require adherence to a specific belief system. Candidates from religious, spiritual, secular, and humanist backgrounds are welcome, provided they are aligned with HeartStone’s guiding principles and ethical expectations.
Formation and Preparation
HeartStone Ministry places strong emphasis on preparation and formation. Ordination reflects demonstrated readiness rather than personal aspiration alone.
Formation may include:
- Study and reflection on ethics, care, and responsibility
- Training in ceremony, ritual, and pastoral presence
- Engagement with humanist and pluralistic perspectives
- Ongoing learning and self-reflection
In some cases, temporary or provisional ordination may be offered while required formation or coursework is completed. Permanent ordination is granted upon fulfillment of all formation expectations and review.
Ethical Commitments
Those ordained through HeartStone Ministry are expected to uphold clear ethical standards, including:
- Respect for the dignity and autonomy of all people
- Commitment to inclusion and non-discrimination
- Responsible use of ministerial authority
- Confidentiality and professional boundaries
- Ongoing accountability and learning
Ordination may be reviewed or withdrawn if ethical commitments are not upheld.
Relationship to Ceremony & Care
Ordination within HeartStone Ministry supports both Ceremony & Ritual and Care & Support practices. Ordained ministers may serve through ceremonial leadership, caregiving presence, teaching, or other forms of ministry aligned with HeartStone’s mission.
Ceremonial services offered through Whispered Vows are conducted by ministers ordained or recognized by HeartStone Ministry.
Moving Forward with Ordination
Ordination through HeartStone Ministry begins with discernment and conversation rather than application alone. Individuals considering ordination are encouraged to reflect on their sense of responsibility, readiness, and alignment with HeartStone’s guiding principles.
To support clarity and integrity, HeartStone Ministry offers defined ordination pathways that outline preparation, formation, and review. These pathways are designed to honor both the seriousness of ordination and the diverse backgrounds of those called to serve.
A Ministry of Trust
Ordination is not an endpoint, but an ongoing commitment. HeartStone Ministry remains dedicated to supporting ordained ministers through formation, accountability, and ethical guidance.
The work of ministry is, at its core, an act of trust. We honor that trust with care.