St. Peter's Thanksgiving Service

Sunday, October 5th, 2025

​St. Peter’s October 5th Thanksgiving service offered much to be grateful for – both personally and as a congregation.  

The service was led by Bishop Ove Sander, visiting from Estonia, alongside Reverend Ando Kass, and Deacon Karl Paju.  Music was provided by our organist Erik Kreem.  Scripture readings were delivered by Alice Jupe and Allan Seim.​

We were especially thankful for the debut performance of our newly-formed choir, under the direction of Erik Kreem.

During the service, the new Congregational Council (juhatus) received a blessing from Bishop Sander.

Each year the EELK Consistory recognizes individuals that have made significant contributions towards the work of the church and its mission.  In an editorial for the E-Kirik, a bishop noted that when he reflects on the many parishes he has visited, he thinks of the faithful people who quietly and consistently support parish life without seeking recognition.  It was precisely these kinds of dedicated individuals that Bishop Sander honoured during the Thanksgiving service.

As part of the celebration:

Deacon Karl Paju was presented with a book of meditations and a keychain from Rome, in recognition of the Vatican’s Jubilee Year.

Thomas Arget received a handmade wooden cross from Finland.

​Letters of Appreciation, (Tänukirjad) quoting the verse “Who sows generously will also reap generously” (Kes rohkesti külvab, se ka lõikab rohkesti), were presented to:

• ​Väino Einola - for his dedicated service as former Congregational Chair.

• Reverend Ando Kass – for his pastoral service and mentorship to Deacon Karl Paju.

Letters of Commendation, (Aukirjad) quoting the verse “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” (Teenigu igaüks teist selle andega, mille ta on saanud, kui Jumala mõnesuguse armu head majapidajad.), were presented to:

​Vivi Kivi – for her dedicated service as long-time treasurer and active member of the women’s group, helping organize countless events and celebrations with tireless energy and a cheerful spirit.

​Maie Lees – for being a long-time member of the church’s women’s group, and for her many years of faithful service in organizing and carrying out events, celebrations, and fellowship gatherings at the church. Maie’s energetic and always engaged attitude toward herself, others, and church work has been remarkably cooperative.

​Lia Pikkov -   for being a long-time member of the church’s women’s group, and for her many years of faithful service in organizing and carrying out events, celebrations, and fellowship gatherings.  Lia’s boundless positivity and joyful attitude toward herself, others, and church work has been inspiring.

​Anu Randmaa – for being a dedicated member of the women's group, her many years of faithful service in tirelessly and consistently organizing, updating, and maintaining the archive collection of the church and for supporting and advancing the church through both joyful and challenging times. 

Helmi Viksten – for her faithful leadership as chair of the archives and contributions to preserving the church’s history.

​​​​The combined efforts of these women in both the archives and the women’s group have played a crucial role in supporting and advancing the church through both joyful and challenging times. Their contributions include key renovation projects and the successful publication of a church cookbook. Their practical, calm, and cooperative spirit has been a cornerstone of our community.

​We offer our heartfelt thanks to all the individuals recognized for their invaluable role in preserving and revitalizing our beloved church.

The service was followed by a hot thanksgiving luncheon at which we heard from our visitors the Rectors and education leaders of Estonian universities of applied sciences: 

Andrus Pedai, Rector, Estonian Entrepreneurship University of Applied Sciences

Ülle Ernits, Rector, Tallinn Health University of Applied Sciences

Ulla Preeden, Rector, Tartu Applied Health Sciences University

Martti Kiisa, Rector, TTK University of Applied Sciences

Kuno Tammearu, Rector, Estonian Academy of Security Sciences

Piret Reinus, Estonian Rectors´ Conference of UAS

Laur Lilleoja, Rector, Baltic Methodist Theological Seminary

Ove Sander, Rector, Institute of Theology of the Estonian Evangelican Lutheran Church

Kristi Raudmäe, Head of Higher Education, Ministry of Education and Research

Kalmar Kurs, International Cooperation Adviser, Estonian Education and Youth Board 

Marietta Heinsaar, Head of Programme, Estonian Education and Youth Board 

​We enjoyed having such distinguished guests.   (Photos:  Anne Keelmann & Tiiu Roiser)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XFfUyAyvTRg