Five Perks of Being a Pastor’s Kid (PK)!

We have heard many horror stories about PKs: how they often rebel, how they grow up resenting the church, and how they sometimes don’t turn out “right.”

But how about we flip the script for a minute and discuss the perks of being a PK?

While it comes with its unique set of struggles, there are many blessings I wouldn’t trade for anything.

Here are five perks of being a PK:

1. It gives you a solid foundation for your Christian journey

Growing up in a Christian home sets you up for success and gives you a solid head start. You get used to praying from an early age, and memorizing Bible verses — and that’s always a blessing. That spiritual foundation has helped me today, and I’m not starting from scratch; instead, I’m building on what my parents gave me.

Of course, this isn’t exclusive to PKs — anyone who grew up in a Christian home can relate.

2. You get a lot of gifts growing up

I’m sure a lot of PKs can relate to this. Church members are constantly giving pastors gifts for the right and wrong reasons. Some do it to get close to the “pastor,” others give out of the goodness of their hearts. Either way, the children usually benefit too.

Growing up, Christmas at our house looked like a mini farm. We had goats, chickens, turkeys, rams, sheep, cows, rabbits roaming the compound, and gifts from church members. We received cash gifts, hampers, fruits, clothes… all sorts of things, which made me light up as a child. And to be honest, I still love receiving gifts.

3. We had the right connections

Being a PK meant access to certain people and networks. Pastors often know individuals in powerful positions — politicians, business owners, people with influence. Because the work of a pastor impacts so many lives, people are willing to help in return, and it’s a perk.

When the BVN (Bank Verification Number) registration came out in Nigeria, the queues at the banks were insane, and I had spent an entire week trying to get mine done. Then I remembered — my dad knew the bank manager. I begged him to call, and just like that, I got an appointment the next day. 

4. We learned leadership early

PKs are thrown into leadership roles, and we often serve in multiple units in the church. That teaches responsibility and multitasking from an early age.

While I grumbled at the time (because why was I in every church unit), it taught me how to show up, handle pressure, and be dependable — even when no one’s clapping for you. That leadership skill shows up in my workplace, relationships, and almost every area of my life.

5. We developed a discerning spirit early

As a pastor, you must be discerning because not everyone around you is there for the right reasons. Everyone wants to be associated with the pastor, but not everyone genuinely cares, and as a PK, you witness that firsthand.

I remember moments where we were told not to eat certain food or accept gifts, not because we were ungrateful, but because of the spirit behind them. That’s stayed with me, and this discernment has helped me navigate friendships, relationships, and business decisions.

Being a PK isn’t perfect. It comes with pressure, expectations, and a lot of unseen sacrifices. But it’s not all bad. It’s beautiful, and these perks have shaped who I am today.

So to all the PKs doing their best — showing up, healing, growing, serving with sincerity, or walking in your parents’ footsteps as pastors — your journey is valid, your experiences are real, and most importantly, God’s got you.

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