Frank Zipfel

I became a minister with the old ULC in 2014 in order to perform a wedding for friends.

I have always appreciated the importance of bringing people together, and wedding ceremonies provide a unique opportunity to create an experience that reflects a couple’s story, values, and commitment to one another.

Becoming ordained allows me to offer officiant services that are flexible, respectful, and tailored to each couple’s preferences, whether they want a traditional ceremony, a simple civil-style service, an interfaith wedding, or something more modern and personalized. I enjoy helping couples feel comfortable throughout the process and creating ceremonies that are memorable not only for them, but also for their families and guests.

For me, wedding officiation is about more than simply conducting a ceremony. It is about helping create a meaningful moment that marks the beginning of a new chapter in people’s lives with sincerity, professionalism, and care.

I am originally from Germany and have lived in several different places over the years, including Berlin, Orange County in California, and New Jersey. Having experienced different cultures, communities, and backgrounds has helped me develop a broad perspective and an appreciation for working with people from many walks of life. Those experiences also influence the way I approach wedding ceremonies, allowing me to connect with couples in a way that is open, respectful, and adaptable to their individual traditions and preferences.

Being ordained allows me to serve my community by helping make weddings more accessible, personal, and meaningful. I hope to continue building lasting connections with the couples I work with and to provide ceremonies that they and their families will remember fondly for years to come.

I was raised in the Lutheran tradition and have been affiliated with the Lutheran Church through birth, baptism, and confirmation. My faith background has given me a strong appreciation for Christian values, tradition, and service to others. Later in life, I also became affiliated with a non-denominational Church of Christ community, where I chose to be baptized as an adult as a personal reaffirmation of my faith and spiritual commitment. These experiences have given me both a respect for traditional religious practices and an appreciation for welcoming people from diverse backgrounds and beliefs.

Hudson County, New Jersey