küster

Küster is a German term for a church custodian or sexton. In German-speaking countries, a Küster is responsible for the practical care and upkeep of a church building and its liturgical equipment. The role can overlap with that of a sacristan, though duties and titles vary by parish and denomination.

Typical duties include opening and closing the church, cleaning and maintaining interiors, ensuring heating and lighting for services, and guarding sacred objects. The Küster prepares for worship by arranging vestments, vessels, candles, and books, and may assist during services, ring bells, or coordinate with the organist and choirs. In many communities the Küster also handles minor administrative tasks, maintenance scheduling, and contact with parishioners or contractors. The position is often filled by a lay person and can be paid staff or a volunteer. In some places, especially in smaller parishes, responsibilities may be shared with other roles such as a janitor or administrator.

The term reflects a traditional function within churches and varies in formal status across denominations and regions. In Catholic, Protestant, and some Orthodox contexts, the role is understood as the care of the sacristy and church environment as well as support for liturgical activities. Modern arrangements increasingly differentiate custodial, liturgical, and administrative duties, but the Küster remains a recognized figure in preserving the practical functioning of church life.

See also: sexton, sacristan, church caretaker.