Derwin R Horne

Why I Originally Became an Ordained Minister Online

I became an ordained minister through the Universal Life Church because I felt a divine calling to serve couples in a way that honors both their love and God’s presence in their union. As a devoted Christian, husband, father, and grandpa, I’ve always believed that love is one of the most powerful gifts God gives us—and marriage is its sacred celebration.

Getting ordained online allowed me to step into this ministry with immediacy and intention. It gave me the flexibility to begin officiating weddings while staying true to my faith and values. I saw it as a practical path to fulfill my mission: to help couples build their marriage “on this ROCK,” with God at the center, and nothing prevailing against it.

I chose this route not for convenience, but for connection. It opened the door for me to meet couples from all walks of life, tailor ceremonies to their unique stories, and bring joy, dignity, and a touch of humor to one of the most important days of their lives. My goal has always been to make weddings stress-free, deeply personal, and spiritually meaningful—not just for the couple, but for their families and communities as well.

Becoming ordained online was the beginning of a journey that continues to bless me every time I stand before two people ready to say “I do.”

I’m proudly from Omaha, Nebraska—born and raised right in the heart of the Midwest. This region shaped who I am: humble, hardworking, faith-filled, and family-oriented. Growing up in Omaha taught me the value of community, integrity, and showing up for people with sincerity and kindness.

The Midwest isn’t just where I live—it’s part of my identity. It’s where I learned to put God first, to cherish family, and to serve others with dignity and respect. Whether I’m officiating a wedding here in Nebraska or traveling to meet couples elsewhere, I carry that Midwest spirit with me in everything I do

Through my online ordination with the Universal Life Church, I hope to reach and serve couples who are seeking a meaningful, faith-rooted, and personalized wedding experience. My goal is to be a vessel for God’s love—helping couples build a strong foundation for their marriage, centered on commitment, joy, and spiritual connection.

This ordination has allowed me to step into my calling with flexibility and purpose. It’s not just about officiating ceremonies—it’s about creating sacred moments that reflect the couple’s unique journey, their culture, and their devotion to one another. I want every couple I work with to feel seen, celebrated, and spiritually uplifted.

Ultimately, I hope to use this platform to spread the message that love is divine, marriage is holy, and every union deserves to be honored with dignity, humor, and heartfelt care. Whether in Omaha or across the country, I’m here to help couples begin their Forever Moment with faith, family, and joy at the center.

Yes—while I’m affiliated with the non-denominational Universal Life Church, my personal faith is deeply rooted in Christianity. I’m a strong believer in Jesus Christ and strive to live by His teachings in everything I do. I put God first in my life, and that commitment shapes how I serve as a minister, a husband, a father, and a grandfather.

Being non-denominational allows me to connect with couples from all walks of life while still honoring my Christian values. It gives me the flexibility to meet people where they are spiritually, and to create ceremonies that are inclusive, respectful, and meaningful—whether they’re deeply religious or simply seeking a heartfelt celebration of love.

At the core of my ministry is the belief that love is sacred, marriage is a covenant, and every couple deserves to be supported with grace, dignity, and joy.

What makes my ceremonies truly special is the personal connection I build with each couple. I don’t just show up—I show up with heart, humor, and a deep respect for the sacredness of marriage. Every ceremony I officiate is customized to reflect the couple’s love story, their values, and their cultural background. I take time to listen, learn, and craft a script that feels authentic and unforgettable.

As a strong Christian, I bring a spiritual foundation to the ceremony, honoring God’s presence in the union while keeping things joyful and approachable. I believe love is divine, and when two people commit to each other in front of God, family, and friends, it’s a moment that deserves reverence and celebration.

I also infuse warmth and light-heartedness into the experience—because weddings should be joyful, not stressful. My goal is to make couples feel at ease, their families feel included, and the entire room feel the magic of the moment. Whether it’s a grand affair or an intimate gathering, I treat every ceremony as a Forever Moment.

Yes—being based in Omaha, Nebraska, I have a deep familiarity with the surrounding Midwest region. I’ve had the honor of officiating weddings throughout eastern Nebraska and western Iowa, including cities like Lincoln, Bellevue, Council Bluffs, and even smaller towns that hold big love stories. These areas are close to my heart and easy for me to reach, making coordination smooth and stress-free for couples.

That said, I’m also open to traveling beyond the local area. Whether it’s a scenic outdoor ceremony in the Sandhills, a lakeside vow exchange in Iowa, or a destination wedding that calls for a personal touch, I’m ready to go where love leads. My goal is to make your day meaningful and memorable—no matter.

Yes—beyond officiating weddings, I see my role as a spiritual guide and encourager. I’m here to support couples not just on their wedding day, but in the journey that follows. I offer premarital coaching, prayer support, and faith-based guidance to help couples build a strong, lasting foundation rooted in love, trust, and God’s word.

I also understand that every couple is unique, and I’m committed to honoring that. Whether you’re planning a traditional ceremony, a modern celebration, or something in between, I work closely with you to make sure your values, culture, and story are reflected in every detail.

My ministry is built on approachability, dignity, and joy. I want couples to feel uplifted, confident, and spiritually connected—not just during the ceremony, but in the life they’re building together. If you’re looking for a minister who brings warmth, wisdom, and a deep love for God and family, I’d be honored to walk with you.