Katy Perry is currently the highest profile PK that has gone awry. In a recent interview, she said she is no longer a Christian and doesn’t believe in heaven, hell or “an old man sitting on a throne.”
Katy represents a host of PKs who have struggled with their faith. Recent stats from Barna research say that …
- 40 percent have gone through a period where they significantly questioned their faith.
- 33 percent are no longer active in church.
- 7 percent no longer consider themselves Christians.
What causes this? Pastors who were asked answered:
- 28 percent—unrealistic expectations were placed on them.
- 18 percent—negative experiences in church.
- 17 percent—father or mother is too busy at church to spend time with them.
- 14 percent—faith not modeled at home.
- 9 percent—influence of friends or peers.
What pastors say they’ve done best in raising their kids:
- 37 percent—introduced them to Christ and maintained a Bible-focused home.
- 21 percent—spent time with them and supported them.
- 12 percent—loved them.
- 10 percent—taught them good values.
- 9 percent—allowed them to make their own choices and be themselves.
What pastors say they wish they had done better:
- 42 percent—had spent more time with their kids.
- 8 percent—wish they had been more understanding.
- 5 percent—wish they had given them more Bible teaching.
- 19 percent—no regrets, wouldn’t change anything.
I have a special place in my heart for kids who are PKs because I am one. I grew up to serve the Lord and live for Him. Looking back, here are a few reasons why …
My parents practiced what they preached. I could argue with what they believed, but I couldn’t argue with how they lived what they believed.
My dad and mom spent time with me. My dad spent hours with me in the backyard practicing pitching with me when I was in Little League. When I got into high school and played basketball, he was there in the stands cheering for me. My mom poured her life into me, always there for me.