Can a Catholic be an "ordained officiant" at a wedding?

[ItaloKnight]

A friend of mine is getting married this Sunday. He is not religious at all nor does he attend any church regularly. As such, he is being married by a cousin of his who was “ordained” online so he can be the officiant at the wedding.

However, my friend’s cousin can now NOT make the wedding and he has asked me to get “ordained” online and be the officiant at his wedding.

I am a practicing Catholic and I want to help my friend out. We have been friends since childhood. However, is there anything in Catholic law or doctrine that would prevent me from doing this? I don’t want to get excommunicated or “punished” by the Church (or God) for doing this and helping a friend.

Any information or advice would be appreciated.

Thank you!

 

[Fr.Vincent_Serpa]

Hi,

Since the person has no faith, the Church does allow you to officiate in this way. However, it is not necessary to be an ordained officiant to officially witness a wedding in the U.S. Any adult U.S. citizen can do it. The requirements differ from state to state. Check with your local court house.

Fr. Vincent Serpa, O.P.