Ulc Minister Training & Education - Universal Life Church Monastery Blog

What Does “Ayatollah” Mean?

June 23rd, 2025

Iran’s leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has been in the spotlight following recent military action in Iran. But what exactly does the title “Ayatollah” mean? Who earns it, and why is it so important?

ULC Minister Training & Education 48 Comments

ULC Files Lawsuit Against Virginia Officials to Defend Rights of Ministers

May 27th, 2025

The ULC has filed a lawsuit in the U.S. District Court against Virginia officials who have been discriminating against Universal Life Church ministers and denying them the right to perform wedding ceremonies.

Weddings 23 Comments

What is a Covenant Marriage?

April 28th, 2025

Covenant marriage is surging in interest after Rep. Mike Johnson’s rise to Speaker of the House. Learn what it is, where it's legal, and why some couples are choosing this rare faith-based union legal in only 3 states.

Weddings 33 Comments

The Secret Religious History of April Fools' Day

March 27th, 2025

Do you know the secret religious history of April Fools' Day? Our dedicated prank day has a history dating back centuries, and involves a narcissistic pope, a feast of ass, and a holy circumcision.

ULC Minister Training & Education 49 Comments

World's Largest Religious Gathering Begins in India

January 17th, 2025

Maha Kumbh Mela just began in India. This Hindu celebration is the world's largest religious gathering, and will draw some 400 million faithful over the next six weeks for a once-in-a-lifetime celebration.

ULC Minister Training & Education 53 Comments

What is Shen Yun? Inside the Secretive Dance Troupe Bankrolling a Faith Movement

January 6th, 2025

Shen Yun captivates audiences worldwide with dazzling Chinese dance performances. But is it more than a show? Explore its ties to Falun Gong, a faith with controversial beliefs and secretive finances.

ULC Minister Training & Education 45 Comments

The Secret Religious History of Halloween's Top Monsters

October 25th, 2024

Creatures like skeletons, witches, and zombies have become so closely tied to the Halloween holiday that we don’t think twice about them. But did you know many of these creepy figures have hidden religious connections?

ULC Minister Training & Education 74 Comments

Do All Dogs Go to Heaven? The Answer Might Surprise You

October 7th, 2024

Do all pets get to go to heaven? There’s actually substantial disagreement on this question. It may also depend on the religion of the person you ask – here's what different religions have to say on the subject.

Progressive Spirituality 112 Comments

Does The Lord of the Rings Have Hidden Catholic Messages?

August 29th, 2024

Is The Lord of the Rings a religious story? J. R. R. Tolkien was a lifelong Catholic, and his devout faith strongly influenced his writing – including, some fans say, the most famous fantasy story of all time.

ULC Minister Training & Education 36 Comments

The Secret Religious History of the Olympics

July 25th, 2024

The 2024 Olympics are upon us! But how much do you know about them, really? Most people know the games originated in Ancient Greece, but do you know about the role that religion played (and still plays) to this day?

ULC Minister Training & Education 8 Comments

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