Javier Silva
Ordained Minister in Waco, Texas
Why did you originally become an ordained minister online?
I became ordained online because I wanted to give couples in my community an affordable, flexible alternative to traditional officiant services. Too often I saw friends and family struggle to find someone reliable and reasonably priced to officiate their wedding, so I decided to fill that gap myself. Getting ordained let me offer not just the ceremony, but a full-service experience — helping with everything from rehearsals to the marriage license paperwork — so couples can focus on enjoying their day instead of managing the details.
Where are you from?
I was born in Guayama, Puerto Rico, and raised in Chicago, IL. I've called Texas home for about 30 years now, and I've been living in the Waco area for the past 2 years. That mix of backgrounds — Puerto Rican roots, a Midwest upbringing, and three decades in Texas — has given me an appreciation for different traditions and cultures, which I bring into how I approach each ceremony I officiate.
What do you hope to achieve with your online ordination?
My goal is to build a side business officiating weddings and elopements here in the Waco area and beyond. I want to help couples create a ceremony that truly reflects who they are, whether that means writing custom vows or keeping things simple and traditional. Beyond the ceremony itself, I aim to take the stress out of the logistics — handling paperwork like the marriage license — so couples can be fully present for one of the most important days of their lives.
Religious Affiliations
Baptists, Christianity, Universal Life Church
Additional Information
I grew up in an independent Baptist church, with roots in both Chicago and Austin, TX, which shaped my faith and my approach to ministry. I was later ordained through the Universal Life Church, which allows me to serve couples from a variety of backgrounds and beliefs. I bring that grounding in Christian faith into each ceremony while respecting each couple's own traditions and values.
What do you think makes your ceremonies special as a Waco, TX wedding officiant?
I bring a personal, service-oriented approach to every ceremony I officiate. As a veteran and someone active in my community, I understand the value of showing up prepared, reliable, and fully present — the same standard I hold for every couple I work with. I take the time to get to know each couple so their ceremony feels authentic to them, whether that means writing custom vows together or keeping things simple and traditional. I also make sure the behind-the-scenes details, like rehearsals and marriage license paperwork, are handled smoothly, so couples can relax and focus on the moment.
Are there particular areas near you where you prefer to travel or have special experience?
I'm based in Waco, TX, and happily travel within about 50 miles to serve couples throughout Central Texas, including areas like Hewitt, Woodway, McGregor, West, and the surrounding Bell and Falls County communities. I'm especially comfortable with outdoor and rural ceremony settings, given that I live on a 6-acre property myself.
Types of Service Offered
Marriages, Renewal of Vows, Premarital Counseling, General Ministry
Additional Information
In addition to officiating marriages and vow renewals, I offer premarital counseling for couples who want extra support preparing for married life, and general ministry services for those seeking guidance beyond the ceremony itself. My goal is to be a steady, approachable presence for couples throughout their journey — not just on the wedding day itself.