Esben Thusgård elected new bishop of Aarhus Diocese

The Diocese of Aarhus has chosen Esben Thusgård as its new bishop after a vote with nearly 90 percent turnout among clergy, parish councils, and staff, reports Danish broadcaster DR.

Thusgård, 55, currently serving as a provost, secured 1,119 votes in the second round of the election, defeating opponent Thomas Frank, who received 730 votes. The result was met with celebration from Thusgård’s supporters.

“It is overwhelming and a great joy,” Thusgård told DR, highlighting the high voter participation as a sign of strong engagement within the diocese. “Our turnout in the second round was nearly 90 percent—higher than the first round—showing enormous support for the bishopric and a shared commitment among priests and parish councils.”

Thusgård succeeds Henrik Wigh-Poulsen, who has held the position since 2015. The diocese covers 323 parishes across eastern Jutland, from Silkeborg to Djursland and from Randers to Horsens.

The incoming bishop emphasized his intention to engage in public debate, continuing a tradition set by his predecessors. “I will step into a legacy from Kjeld Holm and others, including Henrik Wigh-Poulsen, by participating in the agendas of Aarhus and eastern Jutland,” he said.

Key issues for Thusgård include positioning the Church of Denmark in public discourse, particularly on topics like climate change and emergency preparedness. “The Church can contribute meaningfully to these conversations,” he added.