One way a religious denomination is officially recognized at the provincial local-government level in Canada is by the grant of an application for the right to have its ordained ministers solemnize marriage. Another way is by the grant of an application for property-tax exemption as a religious organization. Scientology ministers have been granted the right to perform marriage ceremonies in every province of Canada where such churches exist, including: British Columbia (1989), Alberta (1990), Manitoba (1991), Ontario (1994) and Quebec (2006). Churches of Scientology also have been granted exemption from property taxes as religious organizations in every province where there is a Church of Scientology: Alberta (1973), Quebec (1982), British Columbia (1990), Manitoba (1990) and Ontario (1996).
“We are pleased to enclose your Certificate of Registration as a person authorized to solemnize marriages in the Province of Ontario.”
“Church of Scientology of Quebec, authorized to celebrate marriages.”
“This is to certify that a Minister or Clergyman recognized by the Church of Scientology of BC, being a religious body within the meaning of the Marriage Act, was registered with the Director of Vital Statistics at Victoria BC and is duly authorized to solemnize marriage within the Province of British Columbia.”
“This is to certify that [Minister], being ordained or appointed according to the rites and constitution of the Church of Scientology of Alberta is hereby authorized to solemnize marriage within the Province of Alberta, having complied with the requirements of The Marriage Act.”
“This is to certify that Rev. [Church minister] is registered with Vital Statistics to solemnize marriages in and for the Province of Manitoba.”
