Participation awards, a modern symbol of a yearning for equality at the cost of merited awards, have no place in church. To celebrate participation is a failure to recognise diversity of skill, talent, and gifting that we are called to use wisely as stewards of God’s gifts. At times, churches are torn between two extremities in response to the celebration of participation. On one hand, we are tempted to think it is inherently valuable to participate, regardless of the outcome or our capacity to contribute and whether we are called to that ministry. On the other, we drift towards exclusivity, refusing to let anyone participate, forming a ministry elite.