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.
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