It was a distinct pleasure to participate in the service commemorating the regaining of Estonian independence at St. Peter’s Estonian Lutheran Church (Peetri from now on) on the precise day, August 20th. 32 years have passed since Riigikogu Speaker Ülo Nugis lowered his gavel declaring the restoration of democracy and sovereignty. It had been a long battle, but unity among people of differing political stripes and opinions made this long awaited desire come to fruition.

The service was the first since Dean Mart Salumäe, the congregation’s minister elected not to renew his contract and returned to Estonia in June. A combination of factors, including the pandemic and the floating of the idea to sell the church because of an impending financial crisis, rejected narrowly by the congregation and the retirement of the organist led to, as planned by the previous Board of the church having no summer services.

The new Board has not been idle. A successful talgute, volunteer week was held, carrying out various repairs around the church and columbarium. A fundraiser has raised monies, which apparently are enough to effect repairs of the church’s beautiful copper roof; small leaks have been a concern for some time.

Toronto’s other Lutheran congregation, Old St. Andrew’s (Vana-Andrese) has stepped up to the plate in helping fellow Christians. Not only did members participate in the talgud, but it was agreed to join forces for this patriotic commemoration, a day of national importance and a holiday, emphasizing unity, both as Estonians abroad, within the church, and supporting efforts in Estonia to maintain our republic.

On Sunday Vana-Andrese’s pastor Kalle Kadakas officiated, the organist was the Finnish Agricola congregation’s Juha Tikkanen, who also graces the services of the Estonian congregation there with his accompaniment of hymns and if necessary the choir. Most importantly from the perspective of a Vana-Andrese member was the performance of a united choir from the two congregations. The idea was floated by Peetri koguduse member Ilo-Katryn Maimets. Peetri koguduse member Katrin Veski agreed to conduct, her husband Erik Veski to accompany on piano. Vana-Andrese choir conductor Liina Purje-Lepik ensured that the vocal chords were properly warmed up at the beginning of the two, note only two rehearsals held due to the summer season prior to the service. As a singer in the choir one cannot be impartial. But the enthusiasm and joie de vivre experienced both in rehearsal and in performance was personally a breath of fresh air.

The service, sermon and the speeches delivered by our community leaders all emphasized the importance of being united. We may differ in our opinions but our goal is the same. To keep the Estonian community vibrant and significant in the melting pot of cultures that Canada has become.

It was also cheering to notice, after a rehearsal, that the Board has resurrected the monthly newsletter. The first, August edition of Tõe Tera – The Sower is very positive as befits the times, outlining achievements and future plans. Vice-Chairman Tiiu Roiser is the editor, and she has already produced and printed the September edition. Congregants can pick up a copy at the church; the newsletter is also available on Facebook (www.facebook.com/Toronto.St.Pe...) and at www.stpeterstorontoestonianchu... Glad to see the restoration of a tradition, an important means of keeping the congregation informed.

Also to be lauded is the return of English language services, the first such has been scheduled for the first of October, time to be determined, possibly 11:30 am. Pastor Pamela Kormano, formerly of St. Ansgar’s (Danish) Lutheran Church, which, alas, has closed its doors has agreed to conduct these. The goal is to have an English language service on the first Sunday of the month.

Final news of importance. The Peetri congregation will mark the anniversary of fleeing the homeland from the Soviets as well as an important milestone: the 75th anniversary of the congregation itself on September 24th. Pastor Peeter Vanker will be officiating. ELCIC Bishop Michael Pryce will celebrate along with the congregation. The Laikve family will be enriching the service with their lovely voices.

Sunday’s service was followed by a well-attended luncheon. More than 80 people had pre-registered, more joined after the service. Such numbers have not been seen at Peetri for some time. The renamed Ladies Guild, now just the Guild, allowing for the participation of men (two have already joined) and the V-A Ladies Guild worked long and hard to decorate the hall and the buffet tables were absolutely groaning with scrumptious edibles, both salty and sweet. A very successful and friendly undertaking, as judged by overheard conversation. Estonians have long known that in unity there is strength, ühenduses on jõud. Here’s welcoming future co-operation between the two congregations on days of national importance.

TÕNU NAELAPEA

Eestlased Kanadas

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