Cinda L. Gillilan

I became an ordained minister online because of my commitment to inclusivity, compassion, and supporting people during pivotal moments in their lives. My deep respect for diverse beliefs, passion for providing meaningful rituals, and desire to serve marginalized or under-served communities—like the LGBTQ+ community or those who feel disconnected from traditional religious institutions—inspired me to take this step.

Becoming ordained online offered me the flexibility to officiate ceremonies and provide spiritual support in a way that aligns with my values of openness, respect, and honoring the unique journeys of those I serve. It seemed like an extension of my lifelong dedication to listening deeply, offering kindness, and fostering meaningful connections.

I am a westerner, born in California and having lived there as well as in Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, and Colorado. I did spend a few years in Georgia as well, but I feel most at home in the west and plan to make the Pacific Northwest my next home.

Based on my background, my online ordination represents a commitment to creating inclusive, meaningful, and personalized ceremonies and rituals for people from all walks of life. With my ordination, I hope to:

1. Provide a safe and affirming space for all - Offer a welcoming and affirming presence for individuals and couples, especially those who may feel excluded from traditional religious or spiritual spaces, such as LGBTQ+ individuals or those with unconventional spiritual beliefs.

2. Celebrate diversity and unique journeys - Craft ceremonies that honor the diversity of beliefs, traditions, and values, ensuring that each person's story is authentically represented.

3. Offer accessibility and flexibility - Provide an alternative for people seeking officiants who are flexible, inclusive, and willing to meet them where they are—physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

4. Support life's transitions - Expand my ability to guide and support others during significant life transitions, including weddings, funerals, and other rites of passage.

5. Deepen my mission of service - Use my ordination as another avenue to embody my commitment to compassion, respect, and the transformative power of deep listening, aligning with my broader mission of helping people navigate life's challenges and celebrate its joys.

In essence, my online ordination is another tool to further my ability to serve with kindness and integrity, ensuring that no one feels left out or unsupported during their most important moments.

Personally, I am a spiritual seeker, and my spiritual affiliations can be described as deeply inclusive, open, and rooted in respect for the diverse ways people connect with the Divine. While I no longer adhere to a single religious tradition, my spirituality reflects a profound belief in the sacredness of each person's journey and the wisdom they carry within.

I have worked with individuals from a variety of spiritual backgrounds, including Christian, Wiccan, earth-centered spirituality, and those who identify as spiritual but not religious. I embrace and honor many pathways to the Divine, fostering a nonjudgmental and welcoming space for exploration and growth. My approach is shaped by the conviction that each person is created in the image of the Divine and their unique journey—whether chaotic, beautiful, or unassuming—is to be celebrated and supported.

In essence, my spiritual affiliations are centered on kindness, respect, and the belief in the healing power of connection, listening, and compassion, making my practice truly inclusive and adaptable to the needs of those I serve.

My ceremonies stand out because they're deeply personal and inclusive, designed to reflect the unique love story of each couple. With over eight years of experience as a certified spiritual director and a background working with diverse communities, including those from various faith traditions and the LGBTQ+ community, I bring a deep respect for all beliefs and identities. I take the time to listen, understand, and collaborate with couples to create a ceremony that resonates with their values, personalities, and dreams for their future.

Whether it’s weaving in spiritual elements, cultural traditions, or lighthearted moments, my goal is to craft a ceremony that feels authentic and memorable. I believe that every couple deserves a meaningful celebration of their union, and I am honored to be part of such a significant moment in their lives.

For 2025 I'll be staying more or less local here in New Mexico due to the lack of a major airport nearby and the preparation for moving in 2026. Once I know where I'll be living in 2026 this will change.

As a minister, my services go beyond officiating ceremonies—I strive to provide a compassionate, inclusive, and supportive presence for all life's moments, whether joyful or challenging. In addition to weddings, I offer spiritual direction, end-of-life support for humans and companion animals, grief support, and guidance in creating meaningful rituals that honor personal beliefs and values.

I work with individuals and families from diverse spiritual backgrounds, including those who identify as spiritual but not religious, and I am especially dedicated to supporting members of the LGBTQ+ community and others who may have felt excluded from traditional spaces. My approach is rooted in deep listening, respect, and a commitment to celebrating the uniqueness of each person's journey.

Whether it’s creating a custom wedding ceremony, guiding someone through a time of transition, or helping a family honor a loved one, I consider it a sacred privilege to walk alongside others during significant moments in their lives.