Eric Marshall

I originally chose to become an ordained minister through the Universal Life Church because I wanted the freedom to explore spirituality on my own terms. Coming from an atheistic perspective, I never felt connected to traditional religions or their claims about the supernatural. Instead, I was drawn to philosophies that encouraged critical thinking, self-empowerment, and personal responsibility. My interest in modern Satanism fit with that mindset because it treats Satan more as a symbol of questioning authority and celebrating individuality rather than as a literal being. Becoming ordained gave me a way to honor those beliefs while also giving me the ability to support others who value nontraditional paths. For me, combining atheism, Satanism, and the openness of the Universal Life Church represents a commitment to living authentically and helping others do the same.

I come from an atheistic background, where traditional religion never spoke to me, but the ideas of reason, individuality, and personal responsibility did. That foundation eventually led me toward exploring philosophies like modern Satanism and ultimately seeking ordination through the Universal Life Church.

With my online ordination, I hope to achieve a few meaningful things. First, it allows me to step into a role where I can serve others in ways that traditional ministers often do, but from a perspective that aligns with my own beliefs. That includes officiating ceremonies such as weddings and funerals, where I can help people honor life’s milestones in ways that feel authentic to them, even outside mainstream religion.

I also hope to provide spiritual guidance for those who are questioning, seeking, or simply wanting a nontraditional voice to walk alongside them. For some, that might mean talking through personal struggles or exploring different paths of meaning. For others, it might even involve performing symbolic acts like exorcisms, not in the traditional sense of casting out literal demons, but as a way of helping people let go of negativity, toxic influences, or past burdens.

Ultimately, my ordination is about giving people choices. I want to create space for those who feel they don’t fit within conventional faiths, offering ceremonies, support, and guidance that reflect individuality, personal empowerment, and freedom of thought.