Minister Merlyn M Banks

My name is Merlyn Banks, and I became an ordained minister in 2023 as a response to a calling I had already been living out for many years. Throughout my life, people have naturally turned to me for prayer, guidance, encouragement, and support during some of their most meaningful and challenging moments. Becoming ordained allowed me to formally step into that role with intention, purpose, and spiritual authority.

As a mother, mentor, business leader, and woman of faith, my ministry flows from real-life service. Ordination enables me to officiate weddings, lead prayer, offer spiritual counsel, and walk alongside individuals and families during times of celebration, transition, and loss—doing so with reverence, compassion, and integrity.

I reside in Stafford, Virginia, located in Northern Virginia just outside the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. This region has been home to my family and ministry for many years and has shaped my heart for service. Living here allows me to serve a diverse and vibrant community, including surrounding areas such as south of Richmond, Stafford, Spotsylvania, Prince William Counties, Fredericksburg City and parts of the DMV and Maryland within 80 miles.

I am proud to be rooted in a community that values faith, family, and service. My ministry reflects the spirit of this region—welcoming, inclusive, and grounded in compassion.

Yes. My faith is the foundation of my life and service, and it is grounded in a belief in God’s unconditional love. My ministry is guided by Christian values such as compassion, grace, humility, and service, which shape how I show up for others in both spiritual and everyday moments.

While I am rooted in the Christian tradition, I deeply respect the diverse spiritual paths people walk. My calling is to support individuals and families from all Faith and Walks of life—All is Welcome in his kingdom, whether folk are religious, spiritual or have a deep connection with God, or seeking a meaningful and sacred experience. I strive to create inclusive, affirming spaces that honor love, family, healing, and connection, reflecting God’s presence with peace, dignity, and care.

Yes. My faith is the foundation of my life and service, but I also deeply respect the diverse spiritual paths others walk. I am a believer in God’s unconditional love, and my ministry is guided by non denominational Christian values such as compassion, grace, and service.

While I am rooted in the Christian tradition, my calling is to support people from all walks of life—whether they are All Faith base, where connection is with God and not necessarily tied to a church, I honor the love of God and family, healing, and sacred connections wherever it appears, and I strive to create diversity of the people where all welcome and feel included, affirming spaces that reflect God’s presence and peace.

What makes my ceremonies special is the intention, warmth, and personal connection I bring to every couple I serve. I believe weddings are deeply personal, and there is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all ceremony. Each celebration is thoughtfully crafted to reflect the couple’s unique love story, values, and vision for their life together.

I take the time to truly listen and understand what matters most to you, ensuring your ceremony feels authentic, inclusive, and meaningful. Whether your ceremony is spiritual, traditional, non-religious, or a beautiful blend of elements, I create a sacred and welcoming atmosphere where love is honored with joy, respect, and heartfelt words.

My presence is calm, reassuring, and warm, helping couples and their guests feel relaxed and fully present in the moment. It is an honor to hold space for such a significant milestone, and my goal is to create a ceremony that is not only memorable, but deeply moving and true to who you are

Yes. I serve a wide range of locations and am also available for virtual ceremonies when needed. I have special experience and strong community connections South and Northern Virginia, including Richmond, Glen Allen, Stafford, Spotsylvania, Fredericksburg, Woodbridge, Alexandria, and the greater Washington, D.C. area. I am familiar with venues—both traditional and non-traditional—such as churches, parks, historic sites, private estates, and family homes.

I am also open to traveling for destination ceremonies or special events with advance planning, including vow renewals, retreats, and cruise ceremonies. Whether it’s a beachside celebration, an intimate memorial at home, or a joyful gathering in the city, I meet people where they are—both spiritually and geographically—with warmth, flexibility, and professionalism.

In addition to Wedding and Vow Renewals milestone anniversary or simply a desire to reaffirm your commitment, I am honored to offer other services:

Baby Dedications & Blessing Ceremonies- Welcoming a new life is sacred. I offer baby dedications that invite God’s presence and protection over your child’s life, while honoring the commitment of parents and families to raise their little ones in love and faith.

House Blessings- Whether you're moving into a new home or seeking renewal in your current space, I offer house blessings to invite peace, protection, and spiritual grounding. These ceremonies are prayerful, warm, and tailored to your beliefs and intentions for your home.

Celebration of Life Services- private and personalized memorial services that honor the life, legacy, and faith of your loved one. I work closely with families to ensure the service is meaningful, respectful, and healing.