(Photo courtesy of LunahZon Photography)
(Photo courtesy of LunahZon Photography)
Many Rivers Ministries, founded in 2011, honors all people regardless of faith, belief, non-belief, religion, or spirituality. We do not discriminate based on race, creed, ethnic background, familial status, or sexuality. All are welcome. All are loved. LGBTQIA affirming. We work with you to co-create customized ceremonies, rituals, and rites of passage to ensure that your day reflects who you are while also honoring your traditions, culture, families, friends, and loved ones.
(Pictured with my daughter Kyla, photo courtesy of Jellie Quick Photography)
About Reverend Stephanie Heilker
(Pictured with my daughter Kyla, photo courtesy of Jellie Quick Photography)
About Reverend Stephanie Heilker
I grew up in Charlotte, North Carolina, and have spent most of my life in and around weddings, funerals, parties, celebrations, and other events! My mom was the food service director for a large church here. She also had her own specialty and wedding cake business. I was unknowingly preparing for this life's work even as a small child. Never did I imagine myself a minister! After a pause in a career in multifamily property management due to ​severe health challenges, I decided to try something new. I set out for seminary with the intention of working in a counseling capacity with folx who have been institutionalized or incarcerated.
I am a proud graduate of and continue to work with the One Spirit Learning Alliance!
"One Spirit ministers are uniquely qualified to bridge the sacred and the secular, and to celebrate both diversity and unity, in service to anyone in need, no matter their worldview or tradition of origin."
I was already attending One Spirit Interfaith Seminary when a friend asked if I'd write a ceremony for and then officiate their upcoming wedding. Despite having no intentions of officiating weddings when I set out to begin, I said YES! It was truly a grand affair at The Mackey House in Savannah, GA. There were live candy makers, a rocking band, fresh exotic flowers, and impeccably dressed guests! The extravagance was impressive, but the writing and co-creating of this rite of passage with the couple, and then witnessing the ceremony itself was what took my own breath away. I fell in love with helping folx join together and haven't looked back.
When not actively working in ministry I can be found hanging out with my daughter and grandchildren, songwriting, singing, playing the cajón or ukelele, cooking and sharing delicious vegan food, and walking with my sweet and funny pup, Hope the greyhound.