(ChurchLeaders) Chris Tomlin recently sparked online discussion about consumerism within evangelicalism after announcing his Tomlin United tour, where he will be co-headlining with Hillsong United and featuring Pat Barrett. The controversy centers on the “VIP experiences” available for purchase alongside admission tickets.
The Tomlin United website outlines three tiered VIP packages that include experiences such as early access to the venue, a pre-show photo opportunity from the on-stage catwalk, exclusive gifts, and a pre-show experience with Chris Tomlin and Hillsong United on stage.
Julie Roys, investigative reporter and founder of The Roys Report, tweeted a screenshot of the VIP package options, saying, “I used to really like @christomlin. But this Tomlin United Tour reeks of shameless commercialism. I’m having trouble thinking an event offering photo ops on the stage catwalk & an ‘intimate pre-show artist experience’ with Tomlin & United’ (for a price) is all about Jesus. Ugh.”