Prostens

Prostens is a clerical title used in several Lutheran churches in Northern Europe, most notably in Sweden, Norway, and Denmark. The office corresponds to what English-speaking churches often call an archdeacon. The prost acts as the senior priest of a deanery (prosti), a regional grouping of parishes within a diocese, and serves as a link between the parishes and the diocesan bishop.

Duties and responsibilities of the prost typically include coordinating and supervising the clergy within the deanery, supporting parish leadership, and assisting with personnel matters such as assignments and ordinations. The prost represents the deanery in diocesan affairs, helps implement diocesan policies, and may oversee church property and financial matters within the deanery. He or she also facilitates communication and collaboration among parishes, organizes joint pastoral initiatives, and supports regional church initiatives and mission.

Appointment and tenure can vary by country and diocese, but the prost is usually appointed by the bishop of the diocese and is often selected from experienced parish priests within the diocese. The term length may be fixed or tied to retirement, and in some contexts the position is filled for a set period with the possibility of renewal.

Jurisdiction within the church structure places the prost under the bishop and above the deanery, with the deanery comprising several parishes. The office historically stems from medieval church administration and shares roots with the German Propst, reflecting a shared heritage across Northern Europe.