Celebrity vicars do a great job. But if we think it’s about us, we’ve lost the plot

Celebrity Vicars: Public Ministry and Its Purpose

In response to a critique by The Spectator about “funky vicars,” Michael Coren defends clergy who serve in the public eye, challenging the underlying cultural attitudes that shape this criticism.

Defense of Public-Facing Clergy

Michael Coren argues that celebrity vicars do valuable work by engaging people beyond traditional church walls. He emphasizes that such clergy often reach wider audiences through media and public platforms, offering spiritual guidance and promoting the Christian message effectively in contemporary culture.

Warning Against Self-Centeredness

However, Coren cautions that the ministry should never become about personal fame or individual followers. The essence of Christian leadership is service, not self-promotion. When clergy or their congregations focus on themselves rather than on their calling to serve God and others, the true purpose of ministry is lost.

“If we think it’s about us, we’ve lost the plot.”

Cultural Reflection

Coren’s critique extends beyond clergy to the broader culture that idolizes personalities. He suggests that a healthy view of ministry recognizes its communal and God-centered nature rather than the celebrity status of any individual.

Author's summary:
Michael Coren defends celebrity vicars for their outreach but warns against turning ministry into personal fame, reminding that Christian leadership is about service, not self-centeredness.

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Premier Christianity Magazine Premier Christianity Magazine — 2025-11-28

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