From Pastor’s Kid to Pastor: The Journey of Apostle Francis Agyinasare

Introduction

In a compelling interview with Kwadwo Sheldon on ‘Convo with the Head,’ Apostle Francis Agyinasare shared his transformative journey from being the son of a prominent pastor to becoming a respected pastor himself. 

As the founder of the Pastor’s Kids Conference, Agyinasare’s personal experiences and reflections offer a unique perspective on the life of a pastor’s child and the path to ministry.

A Legacy of Faith and Challenges

Apostle Francis Agyinasare, the son of Archbishop Charles Agyinasare and Reverend Mrs. Viviana Agyinasare, grew up surrounded by the world of church leadership and spirituality. 

Despite this, he emphasised that being raised in a church environment did not automatically ensure his spiritual commitment. 

Reflecting on his upbringing, he stated, “If someone sleeps in the garage 24 hours a day, they don’t automatically become a car. If you swim in the sea 24 hours a day, you don’t become a fish.” This analogy underscored his belief that genuine faith comes from personal choice and conviction rather than mere proximity to religion.

At the age of 17, Agyinasare made a pivotal decision to follow Jesus, marking a significant turning point in his life. “The God of my father became my own God at a certain point,” he recounted. 

This personal decision, rather than a forced path, defined his journey into ministry. 

The Path to Ministry: Overcoming Perceptions

Contrary to the misconception that being a pastor’s kid might lead to automatic placement in ministry roles, Agyinasare’s journey involved rigorous evaluation and personal effort. 

He shared how he applied for ministry positions in his father’s church through an objective panel that did not include his father. “I had to go through an objective panel,” he explained, “and my dad was not on the panel. 

Even some of his own blood relatives have gone through the interview, and some of them have not been accepted.”

Agyinasare’s rise through the church ranks was not marked by nepotism but by his dedication and faithfulness. 

His experience exemplifies that the path to ministry requires more than just lineage; it demands personal commitment and the ability to meet specific standards and responsibilities.

Navigating Expectations and Challenges

Apostle Agyinasare also addressed the pressures and challenges faced by pastor’s kids, which can include unrealistic expectations and scrutiny. 

He noted that pastor’s kids often face undue criticism and high expectations simply due to their parent’s public role. 

He shared personal anecdotes, such as being criticised for minor errors or facing undue scrutiny because of his father’s public ministry. “When I was born, I had an accident with my arm… People expected that if my father is praying for people to get healed, how come his own son is not getting healed?” 

These experiences illustrate the intense pressures and unfair judgements that pastor’s kids can encounter.

In response to these challenges, Agyinasare established the Pastor’s Kids Conference, aiming to provide support and a sense of community for those in similar situations. “Pastors kids are ordinary children who find themselves in extraordinary circumstances,” he explained. 

The conference serves as a platform for sharing experiences and offering guidance, helping pastor’s kids navigate the unique pressures they face.

Conclusion: Embracing the Journey

Apostle Francis Agyinasare’s journey from being a pastor’s child to becoming a respected pastor himself highlights the importance of personal faith and perseverance. 

His story challenges the notion that being a pastor’s child automatically guarantees a place in ministry and sheds light on the rigorous process and personal commitment required to serve effectively. 

Through his experiences and the establishment of the Pastor’s Kids Conference, Agyinasare not only shares his journey but also provides a beacon of support for others navigating similar paths. 

His story is a testament to the power of personal conviction and the impact of facing challenges with grace and determination.