On February 21, 2021, the Estonian Evangelical Lutheran Congregation in St. Petersburg celebrated two dates: 160 years since Jaani kirik (“John’s Church” in Estonian) was dedicated and 10 years since the church re-opened after a renovation/restoration. The former anniversary was supposed to be marked last November, but it was impossible to get together all the guests because of the pandemic. At that time, medalist and sculptor Andrei Mishin handed the congregation a commemorative sign of his own making.The festive worship service was officiated by Bishop Ivan Laptev of The Evangelical Lutheran Church of Ingria and Bishop Tiit Salumäe of the Western and Northern Regions of The Evangelical Lutheran Church of Estonia. Consul General of Estonia in St. Petersburg Carl Eric Laantee Reintamm participated in the festivity.
The day will be remembered for its warm and friendly atmosphere. Before the worship service, congregants gathered for a church members’ meeting to elect the church council and the audit commission.
We’d like to congratulate Rev. Fyodor Tulynin who is the acting pastor of St. John’s Estonian Church, all of its officers and members!
Photo credits: Bishop Ivan Laptev, St. John’s Church’s VK group.