Question about starting ministry

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09 Jan 2008 09:12 #10239 by
I have a friend who plans to move over here from L.A. in late May, with the intent of opening up a wedding chapel. As clergy, she has asked me to assist with ceremonies (which I'm glad to do), and she also is willing to let me hold Jedi meetings at the chapel.
So, the question: how does one go about starting up a brand new ministry?
Any advice, tips, etc. would be appreciated.
MTFBWY,
-Chance

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09 Jan 2008 09:25 #10242 by Br. John
A ministry is easy. You get a ministers license and just conduct the weddings. If you mean you want to start a church that's a different matter and I can help you with that.

An independent minister is a self employed person for US federal and state income tax purposes.

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09 Jan 2008 09:30 #10243 by
Yeah, starting a church is what I'm aiming for.
How would I get started?
-Chance

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09 Jan 2008 09:46 #10244 by Br. John
The easy way to start a congregation is for us to charter you and you need five local regular members. Your church will have its own name and federal tax ID number. You have your own bank account and keep your own records. This costs nothing but we can always use a donation.

You could incorporate as a non-profit corporation and this is more involved. What state is this?

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09 Jan 2008 10:20 #10246 by
Texas.

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29 Jan 2008 07:42 #10694 by
So, which step should I take first; getting a charter, or getting the five start-up members?
-Chance

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29 Jan 2008 09:41 #10695 by Br. John
We can charter a local congregation after there are five members.

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29 Jan 2008 15:13 #10706 by
Go Chance, i am glad to here this is happening, Good luck.

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29 Jan 2008 15:59 #10709 by
Okey-dokey; I'll let you know when I got 'em.
Thanks (to both) for encouraging me in this. If y'all know of anyone in the Four States area, send 'em my way!
:)
MTFBWUA,
-Chance

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09 Feb 2008 19:40 #11124 by
Okay, new question on the table:
What's the best way to advertise the creation of a new Jedi Church? Is it something I can post at a High School/College? Starbucks? Do I take out an ad somewhere?
-Chance

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