Religious officials on their professions and institutions

This study aims to reveal the perspectives of mosque officials on their profession and institution. In line with this objective, a qualitative research method was followed, and a case study design was employed. The study group consists of 22 mosque officials. The data of the research were collected through a semi-structured interview form, one of the interview techniques. Content analysis was used in the analysis of the data. As a result of the analysis, it was determined that mosque officials view their profession as a continuation of a sacred mission, that their parents were influential in their career choice, that they do not find the education they received sufficient, and that they believe practical training should be increased. Additionally, it was observed that they think their profession holds a high status in the eyes of society, that their profession positively reflects on their social lives, and that they feel the spiritual aspect of their profession is superior to others. It was also found that positive feedback increases their motivation, while unjust criticism decreases it, that communication problems occur among colleagues, that it is important to perform the profession willingly, and that religious officials play a special role in traditional events. Regarding their institutions, it was understood that mosque officials have developed a strong sense of belonging to their institution, but believe that relations with the institution should be further improved, that transparency should be emphasized in promotion and transfer exams, that their professional self-efficacy should be enhanced, and that they expect to have equal rights with other public employees. Moreover, the findings include that they do not consider changing their job, that they would recommend their profession to others, and that there is a positive perception and sense of trust in their institution within society.