officiant

An officiant is a person who performs a ceremonial function, especially the formal presider at a wedding or other rite such as a civil ceremony, funeral, or baptism. Officiants can be religious leaders, such as priests, ministers, rabbis, imams, or monks; or secular officials such as judges, justices of the peace, registrars, or professional celebrants. In many jurisdictions, an officiant also has legal responsibilities, including ensuring the ceremony complies with applicable law and filing necessary documents, such as a marriage license, with civil authorities.

Becoming an officiant varies: religious officiants are typically ordained or appointed by their religious body, while civil or secular officiants may require registration with a civil authority or appointment by a government body. Some couples hire a private celebrant who is not affiliated with a religion; these celebrants are often authorized to solemnize marriages through a local registry or court, depending on law.

During a ceremony, the officiant presides, leads prayers or readings, recites vows, offers blessings, or performs symbolic acts. They may tailor the service to fit the couple’s or family’s beliefs, culture, and preferences, and may collaborate with other participants such as musicians, readers, or photographers. Etiquette often emphasizes neutrality or inclusivity in multifaith or nonreligious settings.

Officiants also preside over other rites, including funerals, naming ceremonies, and adoptions, where appropriate. The term officiant is gender-neutral and used widely across cultures; related terms include clergy, minister, rabbi, imam, judge, or celebrant, depending on the context.