Joann Reyes Rivera
Ordained Minister in Sandy, Utah
Why did you originally become an ordained minister online?
I am pursuing online ordination as a non-denominational minister because I want to be available to serve my family, friends, and community during some of life's most important moments. Over the years, I have seen how difficult it can be to find an ordained minister on short notice for weddings, funerals, and other meaningful ceremonies. I would like to be someone my loved ones can turn to when they need guidance, support, and a trusted officiant.
My goal is not only to perform weddings and officiate funerals, but also to deepen my relationship with God and continue growing in faith. As a non-denominational minister, I hope to provide compassionate, respectful, and inclusive services that honor the beliefs and wishes of those I serve. Becoming ordained will allow me to support others during both joyful celebrations and times of loss while answering a personal calling to strengthen my spiritual journey and help those around me.
Where are you from?
I was born in Chicago, Illinois, and lived there until I was about seven years old. My family then moved to Salt Lake City, Utah, where I was raised and have spent most of my life.
What do you hope to achieve with your online ordination?
Through my online ordination, I hope to achieve both personal spiritual growth and the ability to serve others during important moments in their lives. I want to deepen my relationship with God, strengthen my understanding of faith, and continue developing as a compassionate and trustworthy leader.
I also hope to be available to family, friends, and members of my community who need an ordained minister for weddings, funerals, memorial services, and other significant ceremonies. I have seen firsthand how difficult it can be to find someone on short notice to officiate these events, and I want to help fill that need by providing meaningful, respectful, and personalized services.
As a non-denominational minister, I hope to create an inclusive and welcoming environment where people feel supported regardless of their background or denomination. Ultimately, I want to use my ordination to serve others, honor God through acts of service, and make a positive difference in the lives of those around me.
Religious Affiliations
Christianity
Additional Information
I am a Christian with a non-denominational faith background. My beliefs are centered on Jesus Christ, the teachings of the Bible, and living a life guided by faith, compassion, service, and love for others. While I do not identify with a specific denomination, I value the shared principles of Christianity and welcome people from diverse backgrounds and traditions.
My faith emphasizes a personal relationship with God, prayer, spiritual growth, and serving others with kindness and respect. As a non-denominational minister, I strive to create an inclusive and welcoming environment while honoring Christian values and supporting individuals and families during important moments in their lives.
What do you think makes your ceremonies special as a Sandy, UT wedding officiant?
What makes my ceremonies special is the personal connection I have with the couples and families I serve. Rather than using a one-size-fits-all approach, I take the time to learn about their story, values, and what matters most to them. This allows me to create a ceremony that feels meaningful, authentic, and reflective of their unique relationship.
As a non-denominational officiant, I strive to provide ceremonies that are welcoming, respectful, and inclusive. I believe a wedding should celebrate not only the union of two people but also the love, commitment, and support of their family and friends.
My goal is to create a comfortable and memorable experience by bringing compassion, sincerity, and professionalism to every ceremony. Whether a couple wants a traditional, spiritual, simple, or personalized service, I work with them to ensure their wedding reflects their wishes and creates lasting memories for everyone involved.
Most importantly, I consider it an honor to be entrusted with such an important moment in a person's life, and I approach each ceremony with genuine care, respect, and dedication.
Are there particular areas near you where you prefer to travel or have special experience?
I enjoy creating meaningful ceremonies that feel personal and intimate, often in outdoor settings where couples can celebrate in a natural and relaxed environment. I value simplicity, connection, and focusing on what matters most to the couple rather than overly formal arrangements.
For travel, I am willing to officiate ceremonies beyond a 60-mile radius when needed. In those cases, I kindly request gas compensation to help cover travel expenses. My goal is to remain flexible and accessible while ensuring that I can continue to provide reliable and thoughtful service to those I work with.
Types of Service Offered
Marriages, Same-Sex Marriages, Renewal of Vows, Funerals, Premarital Counseling
Additional Information
I am pursuing ordination to grow closer to God and to serve my family, friends, and community through weddings, funerals, and other meaningful ceremonies.