It's What We Do - Student Ministry Podcast
Join host Zac Priest and special guests as they share stories, give encouragement, and make connections from people living the life of ministry.
It's What We Do - Student Ministry Podcast
Episode 10 - Living in a Fishbowl: Balancing Ministry and Family Life w/ Guests Summer, Hannah, & Riley Priest
Have you ever felt like you're living in a fishbowl, where the world is watching your every move? As a family deeply entrenched in ministry, my wife Summer, our daughters Hannah and Riley Kate, and I have experienced this unique challenge firsthand. Our final episode of "It's What We Do, the Student Ministry Podcast" Season 1 brings you into our home for an honest conversation about balancing the demands of ministry with the ever-important bonds of family. Summer opens up about her transformative faith journey and the pivotal role of community in her spiritual growth, while Riley Kate shares her story of resilience and determination following a serious ATV accident.
Throughout this episode, we openly discuss the pressures and expectations faced by ministry families and the strength required to maintain authenticity. We explore the unique privileges and challenges of being recognized in the community, the sometimes humorous yet serious reality of living under scrutiny, and the delicate balance of supporting one another through it all. Our daughters weigh in on what it's like growing up with parents deeply involved in church work, sharing candid insights about their experiences in our youth group and the moments that have solidified their faith and resilience.
This isn't just a reflection of our journey; it’s a testament to the collaborative spirit required to thrive in both family and ministry roles. We delve into setting boundaries to protect family experiences, especially when work responsibilities threaten to overshadow personal moments. You'll hear about the strategies we've developed to keep our family intact, even amid the demanding schedules of ministry life. As we wrap up our season, we extend our heartfelt thanks for journeying with us and hope our stories inspire you to cherish the unique path that comes with being part of a ministry family.