Richard Lawson
Ordained Minister in Kent, England
Why did you originally become an ordained minister online?
I feel called to become an ordained minister because I have a deep desire to serve others and make a meaningful difference in people’s lives during their most significant moments. The role would give me the unique opportunity to provide spiritual guidance, comfort those facing grief or crisis, and celebrate life’s joyous occasions like weddings and baptisms. As an ordained minister, I would have the privilege of building genuine connections within my community while helping people navigate their spiritual journeys and find purpose in their faith. The position would allow me to combine my passion for theology and religious study with practical service, whether through delivering sermons that inspire and challenge, counseling individuals and families, or leading community outreach programs. I’m drawn to the variety the role offers - from quiet moments of pastoral care to dynamic teaching opportunities - all while living out my own spiritual convictions and potentially experiencing profound personal growth through my ministry to others.
Where are you from?
Sevenoaks, Kent in the uk
What do you hope to achieve with your online ordination?
I hope to achieve several meaningful goals through my ordination. First and foremost, I want to create a safe and welcoming space where people feel comfortable exploring their faith, asking difficult questions, and finding spiritual support during life’s challenges. I aspire to be a source of comfort and guidance for those experiencing loss, uncertainty, or spiritual struggles, helping them discover hope and resilience even in dark times. I also hope to build bridges within my community, bringing people together across different backgrounds and fostering understanding and compassion. Through my ministry, I want to address real social issues and needs, whether that’s supporting families in crisis, advocating for social justice, or creating programs that serve the most vulnerable members of society. I’m passionate about making faith relevant and accessible to modern life, helping people see how spiritual principles can guide their daily decisions and relationships. On a personal level, I hope that my ordination will deepen my own spiritual journey and understanding, as I believe that serving others is one of the most profound ways to grow in faith. Ultimately, I want to leave a lasting positive impact on the lives I touch, knowing that I’ve helped people find meaning, healing, and connection in their relationship with the divine and with each other.
Religious Affiliations
Christianity, Universal Life Church
Additional Information
As a Christian minister, I would bring the foundational teachings of Jesus Christ to the center of my ministry - emphasizing love, compassion, forgiveness, and service to others. My Christian faith would guide how I approach every aspect of my work, from the way I counsel couples to how I support those in crisis. I’d draw from Scripture to offer hope and wisdom, helping people understand how biblical principles can provide guidance and comfort in their daily lives. I’d be committed to sharing the Gospel message while being respectful of where people are in their spiritual journey. Whether someone is a lifelong believer, new to faith, or simply exploring Christianity, I’d meet them where they are and help them grow in their relationship with God. My sermons and teachings would focus on making Christ’s message relevant to contemporary life, showing how His love and teachings can transform our relationships, our communities, and our world. I’d also emphasize the importance of Christian community and fellowship, creating opportunities for believers to grow together through Bible study, prayer, and mutual support. My goal would be to help build a church family where people can experience God’s love through genuine relationships with one another. As a Christian minister, I’d see my role as not just performing religious ceremonies, but as a shepherd helping people discover the transformative power of faith in Jesus Christ and encouraging them to live out their calling as His followers in their everyday lives.
What do you think makes your ceremonies special as a Kent, ENG wedding officiant?
I believe my ceremonies are special because I take the time to truly get to know each couple and understand their unique love story. Rather than using a one-size-fits-all approach, I work closely with couples to craft a ceremony that authentically reflects their relationship, values, and vision for their future together. I listen carefully to how they met, what they love about each other, and what marriage means to them personally. What makes my ceremonies particularly meaningful is my ability to weave together the sacred and the personal. I can honor the spiritual significance of marriage while incorporating the couple’s individual personalities, cultural backgrounds, and shared experiences. Whether they want traditional religious elements, contemporary vows, or a blend of both, I help create a ceremony that feels genuinely theirs. I also bring a calm, reassuring presence to what can be a nerve-wracking moment. I guide couples through the process with warmth and confidence, helping them feel at ease so they can fully experience the joy of their special day. My goal is to create a ceremony that not only legally binds them but also serves as a beautiful, memorable foundation for their marriage - one that they’ll look back on with joy and that their guests will remember as truly touching and authentic to who they are as a couple
Types of Service Offered
Marriages, Same-Sex Marriages, Renewal of Vows, Baptisms, Funerals, Christenings, House Blessings, Premarital Counseling, General Ministry, Spiritual Guidance
Additional Information
As a minister, I would offer a wide range of services beyond wedding ceremonies. I’d provide pastoral counseling to individuals, couples, and families facing various life challenges - whether that’s marital difficulties, grief, addiction recovery, or major life transitions. I’d also officiate other significant life events like baptisms, confirmations, and memorial services, helping families mark these important spiritual milestones. I’d offer pre-marital counseling to help couples prepare for marriage, exploring topics like communication, conflict resolution, and shared values. Similarly, I’d provide spiritual guidance and religious education classes for both adults and children who want to deepen their faith understanding. Community outreach would be another important aspect of my ministry. I’d organize and participate in programs that serve those in need - perhaps food drives, homeless outreach, or support groups for people dealing with specific challenges. I’d also provide hospital and home visits to those who are ill, elderly, or homebound, offering spiritual comfort and companionship. Additionally, I’d be available for crisis intervention and emergency pastoral care, knowing that spiritual needs don’t follow a schedule. I’d also lead Bible studies, prayer groups, and other educational programs to help people grow in their faith journey. My goal would be to serve as a spiritual resource and shepherd for my community, available to help people navigate both their everyday spiritual questions and their most profound life experiences.