Frequently Asked Questions
During this pandemic, many, in great wisdom and thoughtfulness, delayed large events due to safety concerns.
Consider an online recording of your event for loved ones unable to attend in person.
Are you affiliated with a specific denomination – what is your flexibility or openness to other denominations?
I was ordained by Calvary Baptist Church in Roanoke, Virginia to the Gospel of Ministry July 15, 2012 and was endorsed for hospital chaplaincy by the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship. My husband and I are active members at First Baptist Church in downtown Austin.
I was extensively trained to teach, preach and officiate in: churches, funeral homes, gravesides and hospitals. Most weddings and funerals I officiated were outside of church settings. It brings me great joy to work with couples to create a marriage service that specifically honors their individual spiritual beliefs. My entire background is ecumenical and I have tremendous respect for other faiths. See About Reverend Jody and What Inclusive Means to Me for more information.
How far in advance does someone need to book for a service or ceremony?
My preference is 3-6+ months in advance for weddings, retreats and sacred services and it depends on availability. I do require the couple to complete at least 4 Premarital Counseling sessions 10 days prior to the wedding date. See Weddings for more details.
Will you marry “same sex” couples?
Yes. I believe every person should be able to marry the person they love. See Weddings.
Are your rates flexible for preaching and teaching in small churches?
Yes. See Fees listed in each section or contact me directly for more information.
Will you lead retreats or officiate at weddings and funerals outside Austin?
Yes. Additional fees will likely apply. Contact me directly for more information.
I grew up in one denomination and my fiancé is not sure of his/her/their spiritual beliefs. Would you be willing to marry us?
This is an often-asked and challenging question. In reality, many of our spiritual beliefs transform throughout our lives. Most couples whose weddings I officiated had different beliefs, were from contrasting backgrounds and respectful as they spoke with and treated each other. It was a privilege to preside at their weddings. Couples from very different spiritual and belief systems experience healthy marriages for a lifetime because of their diligence in good communication and consistent respect for one another. This is where Pre-Marital Counseling provides an opportunity to explore each person’s beliefs, effectively communicate and to decide how to be together in a mutually respectful union.
I believe each person’s spiritual beliefs are to be honored – unless the person attempts to justify their spiritual beliefs and practices to be abusive to another.