I pose a question of ethics regarding officiating various weddings. I've been ordained for about a year and a half now and have one ceremony under my belt so far, but once the word got out that I was ordained I have had multiple people ask if I can officiate their weddings. The only ceremony I have officiated for was for very close friends so I really thought nothing about this, but with all of these other people asking me to officiate, it raised an ethical question.
As un-dude as it may sound, at least to me, it seems as though this could be a somewhat decent source of extra income. The question, is it unethical to charge people for the service? Since that first ceremony was for close friends, it would have felt oh so wrong to ask them for compensation. Since I've received several requests from other people, all of whom are not nearly as close to me personally, I had that thought creep into my mind. I'm not talking about some astronomical amount, but enough to easily cover expenses like gas and Russians.
I was hoping to get some outside opinions from other members about this. Again, I haven't been around too long, so I honestly have no idea if I should or if it is generally frowned upon. Any and all opinions are welcomed.
i think your ok with covering your costs along with the Russians needed plus maby a descent rug that may tie one of your rooms together . maby a donation so your not dealing with the most undude of the undudes , the taxman
I agree. I think, in keeping with the parlance of our times, money is tight. Ask what you think is acceptable, and if they don't dig it, they are probably nihilists. Its reasonable to ask for payment for your time and any white russians consumed, but your service should always be free of charge.
If they can afford to help out a Dude without breaking the bank I don't see the harm. Especially when you consider travel, time, food, beverages, and the price of bowling. Sadly, the world as it is, makes the adage of time is money ring with a Big L and Walterish truth, but when you think about it without Walter and the menagerie of other characters of the big L to contrast the Dude how would you know what was truly Dudely. As long as you don't become nihilistic and have your girlfriend cut off her big toe and remember even the Dude knew when to say F@#$ the money man! you should be okay.