It’s Cruise Ship – Is our ‘Ministry’ Really Ministry?

Last week I was in a meeting discussing possible upcoming events for our church. A new, exciting ministry opportunity was being discussed but it would interfere with an established tradition with one of the existing ministries of the church.

I explained that I’d be willing to forgo the establish to traditional ministry (or find a way to work around it) in order to make the new opportunity happen.

“We can change what we’re doing that day,” I said. “I mean this thing is a tradition, but it’s ‘cruise ship.'” Heads nodded in understanding.

For those who don’t know, the phrase “cruise ship ministry,” it doesn’t actually mean you’re working on a cruise ship (although cruise ship chaplains do exist). It is a phrase commonly used to refer to ministry programs designed purely to entertain an established group. It’s a party or trip or event dressed up as ministry.

Let me be clear, I actually enjoy event planning. Not all people in ministry do. I’ve been doing large scale event planning since college, and I’ve even written before about the importance of events like overnight lock-ins. But we always have to be careful about planning ministry events.

Recently, at a training retreat for youth leaders, the retreat coordinator made an off-hand comment that a better job title for us might even be “youth event planners.” He said it with a bit of a joking tone, but it is something I really wrestle with.

I hesitate to think about all the day trips and block parties I’ve organized in which not even a prayer was said before the meal. I sometimes allow myself to slip back into the role of event planner because I actually find it easier. There’s less at stake in event planning than in real ministry.

Also, more honestly, I am afraid that Jesus might not be enough for some people.

And there is something to this in scripture, Jesus taught and healed but he also fed the 5,000, offering them the modern equivalent of free pizza. He attended banquets, weddings, and even suggests that heaven is one big party (Luke 15:7).

A few weeks ago, I sat down with my Youth Leadership Team and asked for input on our upcoming retreat. I did get the typical request to organize events like a basketball tournament and a late-night round of manhunt. But I also received requests for fireside worship and space for quiet time and a prayer service.

To believe that Jesus isn’t enough is a lie from straight from the pit. But, to belive that Jesus never enjoyed a good party is a lie as well.

Like a ship navigating rough waters, we must be careful not to steer too close to each extreme.