A regular minister of religion is an individual who, as part of their usual occupation, preaches and teaches the principles of a specific religion. This person may not have formal ordination but is recognized by their church, sect, or religious organization as a regular minister. Their role typically involves guiding members of their faith community and providing spiritual support.
The term "regular minister of religion" is often used in legal contexts related to religious exemptions, tax statuses, and immigration matters. It may come into play in various legal areas, including:
Users can manage some related legal processes using templates from US Legal Forms, which provide resources drafted by attorneys.
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: A community church has a member who leads prayer meetings and teaches Bible study classes. Although they have not been formally ordained, the church recognizes them as a regular minister of religion.
Example 2: An individual who conducts religious ceremonies and provides spiritual guidance for a local religious group without formal ordination may also be considered a regular minister of religion.
According to the Military Selective Service Act, a regular minister of religion is defined under Title 50 USCS Appx § 466. This statute outlines the recognition of individuals who serve in this capacity, even without formal ordination.
Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):
| State | Key Differences |
|---|---|
| California | Recognizes non-ordained ministers for certain legal exemptions. |
| Texas | Allows for broader definitions of ministry roles in employment law. |
This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.
| Term | Definition | Key Differences |
|---|---|---|
| Ordained Minister | A person formally consecrated to perform religious duties. | Requires formal ordination; recognized by specific religious authorities. |
| Lay Minister | An individual who performs religious duties without formal ordination. | May not have the same recognition or responsibilities as a regular minister. |
If you believe you qualify as a regular minister of religion, consider the following steps:
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