How can church leaders raise children who love Jesus without feeling crushed by the pressures of ministry?

In the third episode of our Pastor's Kids series, Gareth, Lizzy and Toby are joined by Rich and Kath Johnson to explore what it means to raise children while leading a church. Drawing on years of ministry and family life, they share honest stories, practical wisdom, and encouragement for parents seeking to build a healthy home while serving others.

Rich and Kath discuss the unique opportunities and challenges of raising children in a church leadership family. From funny moments to navigating church conflict, confidentiality, and public expectations, they reflect on how ministry can shape family life—for better and for worse.

The conversation explores how parents can create healthy boundaries between church and home, protect quality family time, and help children develop a genuine faith of their own. They also discuss the importance of trusted mentors, supportive church communities, and giving children space to be themselves rather than feeling pressure to live up to unrealistic expectations.

Throughout the episode, Rich and Kath remind parents that perfection isn't the goal. By modelling authentic faith, admitting mistakes, and trusting God with their children's journey, ministry families can create homes where children flourish both spiritually and emotionally.

Whether you're a pastor, church leader, ministry volunteer, or simply interested in raising children with a resilient faith, this episode offers practical encouragement for building healthy families while serving the local church.

We’d love to hear from you — email hello@famalampod.com or DM us on Instagram @famalampod.

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About Famalam:

Famalam is a Christian family & parenting podcast hosted by Gareth, Lizzy, Daisy, Lucy, and Toby Robinson. We explore Christian parenting, raising kids, faith at home, discipleship, family challenges, communication, boundaries, discipline, tech and screens, mental wellbeing, friendships, church engagement, Christmas traditions, and real-life family dynamics.

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Instagram: @famalampod | Email: hello@famalampod.com