The verger and the sacred heritage : a qualitative study in Växjö diocese

The purpose of this study was to investigate how the church verger relates to the cultural heritage in their churches and how the churches are affected by their cultural heritage. I also wanted to investigate the problem in preserving a heritage that doubles as a living religious room. Finally, I wanted to know how the verger's work is influenced by the dual responsibility towards the parish and county government. In the study the vergers were interviewed about their workplace and work situation. I also interviewed the antiquarian in Växjö diocese. I then analyzed the results by using Svante Beckman’s concept categories and value typology of cultural heritage. I drew the conclusion that the church instills a feeling based on historical values. I also concluded that the verger’s knowledge and care of the church protects the cultural heritage values. This knowledge is in itself a cultural heritage that needs to be nurtured and protected. Finally, my study found that the county government and the heritage law do not cater to the needs of parishes today. The requirements demanded by the county government have become yet another stress factor in the verger’s everyday