Uppdrag och begränsning : Prioriteringar i diakonin hos tre församlingar i Strängnäs stift

Sammanfattning

This thesis examines how diaconal prioritization is expressed among pastors and deacons in three parishes within The Church of Sweden. The material consists of six qualitative interviews analyzed with inspiration from Grounded Theory. The theoretical perspectives used are Evans and Harris’ theory of professional discretion and Alvesson and Willmott’s theory of identity regulation. The study identifies the core variable: Navigating responsibility and priorities in the encounter between unlimited needs and limited resources. The results show that diaconal work is primarily understood as a relational practice characterized by presence, listening, and long-term relationships. At the same time, prioritization emerges as a central aspect of diaconal work. In the discussion, diaconal work is understood as a dynamic practice shaped in the tension between theological ideals, organizational demands, and people’s concrete needs. The study therefore demonstrates how diaconal priorities are not merely organizational or economic issues, but also expressions of the Church’s identity, view of humanity, and mission.