What they do
Ministers of religion lead religious organisations, perform spiritual and religious ceremonies and provide spiritual guidance to members of a particular religious group. They lead the members of their religious organisation in acts of worship, officiate at weddings, funerals and other religious ceremonies, and offer a range of other community services, both in conjunction with the organisation they work for, and through their own personal day to day activities.
Ministers of religion may operate within any of a number of religions, the beliefs and practices of which vary significantly.
Working conditions
Ministers of religion work in churches, mosques, synagogues, temples and other places of worship. They may also work in schools, hospitals, prisons, offices, or in people's homes. They usually work regular business hours, but depending on the practices of their religion may be required to lead religious services at night or on weekends. They are usually required to travel to various places in the community in order to carry out their duties.
Tools and technologies
Ministers of religion are required to be knowlegable of the texts that relate to their religion. They often use office equipment, including computers, and also use ceremonial apparel and other equipment associated with their religious denomination.
How do I become one?
Education and training
There is no standard requirement for those wishing to become a minister of religion, as requirements vary according to which religion you follow, and which organisation you wish to join.
Some ministers of religion require no formal qualifications in order to practice, but have other requirements, such as having belonged to a particular religious institution for a certain period of time or having completed particular religious rites. Other organisations require their religious leaders to have studied theology at university or a similar institution.
In some religions particular facets of an individual’s lifestyle can be an impediment to becoming a religious leader, such as having been married, divorced, or having children.