Estonia

Estonia is the northernmost Baltic state, sharing borders with Latvia to the south, Russia to the east and Finland to the north. It’s population is approximately 1.5 million. The official language is Estonian, though a significant minority speaks Russian.

In spite of a long history of foreign domination by powerful neighbors, Estonians have maintained a strong sense of national identity and have proven themselves hardy and industrious. The most recent foreign occupation was that of the Soviet Union. In 1939, the Soviets invaded Estonia, wresting control from Nazi Germany. Neither invasion was welcome and sovereign Estonia was submerged into the USSR for the next 50 years. Since reclaiming their independence in 1991, Estonia has rebounded politically and financially and now an active member of both NATO and the European Union.

Thanks to the perseverance of Estonian Christians and the uncommon courage of Estonian pastors, the Church survived her long persecution under communism. Having emerged whole and faithful, the Estonian Church is once again striving to be a bold and effective witness to the culture. As with other European nations, this includes speaking into a post-modern, post-Christian, and newly materialistic culture.

Alongside Ministries International has been involved in supporting the work of Estonian pastors local churches, teaching catechisms, leading Bible studies, calling on the poor or the new members, investing time and friendship in young Estonian Christians.

Please consider prayerfully how God may be calling you to support this part of the world.

For more information on Estonia, see also www.estonia.ee