photo : Rakvore Bible Teaching Day , with Mark and Lívia Nelson in center
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By Lívia R . T . Nelson , OMS Estonia Disciple-Maker
On the northeastern border of Europe lies Estonia , a small country of 1.3 million people . Since the collapse of the Soviet Union , Estonia has developed a reputation for cutting-edge technology , e-government , and high-level education . Estonia is also known as non-religious and considered one of the most agnostic countries in Europe .
While there are active Christian congregations here , they struggle to grow in a society where religion as an institution is stigmatized . Inside the church , people stand by faith despite a lack of resources , teaching materials in the local languages , or strong communities .
The revitalization of the church starts by empowering those who are its pillars today . Pastors , missionaries , and volunteer workers often show signs of loneliness and fatigue . Investing in these people is essential so they can be encouraged in their relationships with God and sustainably serve in a balanced manner , with joy and spiritual boldness .
Six years ago , my husband Mark and I started a “ Bible Teaching Day ” to revitalize communities through learning and fellowship . Estonia does not have traditional Sunday school for adults , so for many , the Sunday church service offers the only source of biblical teaching and fellowship . Our Bible Teaching Day project started in southern Estonia , involving four congregations . We were amazed that most active members of each congregation were willing to gather for a Saturday filled with Bible study and camaraderie . As a result , those four congregations started to interact with and support each other . After a few years , we took the project to northern Estonia , where we saw the same thing happen .
We generally notice that for Estonian churches to grow , they take a personal approach to ministry . Home services or groups connect through common interests and a much less institutional atmosphere . This shows the necessity of human interaction rather than structured programs . Focusing on this reality , we invested in a missions house in the countryside where we welcome and encourage people and offer a space for informal meetings , teaching , and fellowship . The house needs significant updates to receive people year-round , but in its first summer , it hosted about 60 people . We see great potential in going this direction to revitalize Christ ’ s church in Estonia . Would you pray with us for future ministry at the mission house ?
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