Presterollen i trosopplæringen i Den norske kirke: Forventninger fra undervisningsmedarbeidere og menighetsrådsledere

Abstract

The article discusses findings from a qualitative study on expectations towards pastors’ role in the Christian education program for children and young people in the Church of Norway. Data has been retrieved from interviews with Cristian educators and leaders of local church boards conducted in 2014-2015, and written reflections by students in a course on religious education at VID Specialized University, in 2020. Theoretically the study leans on role theory, and discusses constituent and strategic role expectations towards pastors. We find that first of all there is an overall expectation that pastors will engage in the Christian education program. Second, it is anticipated that through their theological competence they will guarantee the quality of the content of the program, both in developing material and in the practical running of it. Third, it is expected that pastors fill the role as supervisors and supporters for Christian educators in order to empower them in their efforts. Finally, the expectations towards pastors are multiple and varied. There is potential for role overload and role conflict. Therefore there is need for further research on the demanding role expectations pastors face in the Christian education program.