St. Peter's Estonian Evangelical Lutheran Church of Toronto
EELK Toronto Peetri Kogudus
Welcome to St. Peter's Toronto
"Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God." (Romans 15:7 ESV)
"Sellepärast võtke vastu üksteist, nõnda nagu ka Kristus teid on vastu võtnud Jumala austuseks." (Roomlastele 15:7)
Services
We extend a warm welcome to St. Peter's. Our services are held at 11:30 a.m., some Sundays in English and Estonian. Please check our Calendar for upcoming services and events.
Deacon Karl Paju's office hours are from 12:00 non to 3:00 p.m. on Thursdays.
Jumalateenistused
Teretulemast Peetri koguduse kodulehele. Meie jumalateenistused toimuvad kell 11.30 pühapäeval. Mõnel pühapäeval on teenistused Inglise keeles, osa Eesti keeles. Tulevate jumalateenistuste ja sündmuste kohta vaadake meie kalendrit.
Diakon Karl Paju kõnetunnid kantseleis kolmapäeviti kl 11.00 – 14.00
EESTPALVED võib igal ajal kirjalikult esitada kiriku kontorisse:
Latest News - Featured Articles
St. Peter's 77th Anniversary English-language Service
Sunday, October 19th, 2025
Lots of activity at St. Peter's today as we commemorated the 77th anniversary of the congregation and 70 years within our own building.
The service was led by Reverend Ando Kass and Deacon Karl Paju with our organist Erik Kreem. Visiting from Estonia was accordionist Henrik Hinrikus who performed "Kesk Õitsvaid Lilli" and "Valss Saaremaalt." Scripture readings were by Väino Keelmann and Kristina Leis. During the service, the "mudilased" with their parents of the "Moms, Pops and Tots" group, participated in the service.
Karl's sermon centered on Love and he told us that bible scholars agree that God created the world. What we don't know, however, is why. Karl surmised that it was done for love, for as today's scripture reading from Matthew 22:34-40 says, love is the most important of commandments:
"When the Pharisees heard that he had silenced the Sadducees, they gathered together, and one of them, a lawyer, asked him (Jesus) a question to test him. 'Teacher, which commandment in the law is the greatest?' He said to him, 'You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the greatest and first commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.' "
The new Ushering and Welcoming Committee (Teenistuste Toimkond) was blessed into service. We thank everyone who has volunteered to help and welcome more members to volunteer to help with services, candle lighting, ushering, collecting donations, etc.
We invite families to join the Moms, Pops, & Tots group ("mudilased") and our Sunday School which meets once a month. The next get-together will be on November 16th, but all are welcome to join us at our Christmas Craft Sale and Cafe on Saturday, November 15th from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Anyone wishing to be confirmed next spring, please register with the church office. Our new choir is also in full swing and welcomes new singers. We practice every Wednesday evening in the nave from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. (Photos: Anne Keelmann & Tiiu Roiser)
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)
Special Meeting of the Congregation
St. Peter’s held a Special Meeting of the congregation on September 27th, 2025. The purpose was to bring the church into compliance with recent changes to the Ontario Not-for-Profit Corporations Act 2010 (ONCA). We needed to approve Articles of Amendment to the Articles of Incorporation, amend the Church’s Constitution and Bylaws, and authorize the Congregational Council to purchase Director’s Liability insurance.
We are pleased to share that the meeting went very smoothly and was a great success! Thanks to strong in-person attendance and proxy voting, members approved all resolutions presented by the Board. The meeting wrapped up quickly, giving us plenty of time to enjoy some coffee and good conversation in the Guild Room. A big shoutout to all our amazing volunteers—none of this could happen without you!
Below: Linda Laikve and Kai Tüll at the meeting registration table. (Images: Anne Liis Keelmann and Kevin Chorowiec)
St. Peter's English-Language Family Service
Sunday, September 28th, 2025
Our fall programs began with a special family service led by Deacon Karl Paju, accompanied by organist Chung Lee.
The service was well-attended, with many young families present to witness a joyful occasion—the christening of Hailey Sri Keelmann. Deacon Paju spoke about new beginnings and shared his intention to guide the congregation through the foundational principles of understanding the Bible. He often leaves us with thoughtful insights to reflect on, and this week he shared a powerful quote from A.W. Tozer: "What comes into our minds when we think about God is the most important thing about us." (Images: Tiiu Roiser)
Toronto Peetri- ja Vana Andrese kogudused Toronto Soome Agricola Kirikus
Kodumaalt lahkumise mälestuspüha Jumalateenistus
Pühapäeval 21. septembril, 2025
Teenis õpetaja Kalle Kadakas ja diakon Karl Paju. Koguduste segakoor dir. Liina Purje Lepik juhatusel. Solist Heli Tenno. Orelil ja klaveril Juha tikkanen. Pühakirja lugejad: Heli Kopti ja Anne Liis Keelmann
Hains Tooming Violin Concert - August 27th - featuring Erik Kreem
Music at St. Peter’s continued on Wednesday, August 27th, with a violin concert by Hains Tooming, accompanied by Erik Kreem.
Hains is the son of our previous guest pastor Anto Tooming and played at St. Peter’s as a young child. His musical talents were evident even at such a young age.
Hains is now a violinist and viola player who graduated from the Estonian Academy of Music and Theatre with a bachelor's degree and obtained a master's degree in Ireland, where he also researched the topic of the well-being of musicians from 2021-20223. He has lived and performed in Estonia, Ireland, Chile, and is currently based in San Francisco. Hains is an active teacher and chamber musician with a passion for promoting the well-being of musicians: “I am very happy to be able to support young musicians on their creative path, promoting their artistic development and mental and physical well-being.”
In addition to playing instruments, his love of singing also brings shine to his music. The concert held at St. Peters offered a cross-section of his musical journey with one song being dedicated one song to Charles Kipper, with whom he had the honor of performing in 2008.
Listeners were fortunate to also hear Erik Kreem who is an Estonian-Canadian composer and pianist living in Toronto. His work has been described as fresh and inventive, combining inspiration from his Estonian roots and Canadian nature. Erik studied composition with Norbert Palejga at the Toronto University. He has been the resident composer of the Kindred Spiritis Orchestra and his works have been performed by numerous ensembles and orchestras, including Continuum Contemporary Music, the Bedford Trio, and the Cathedral Bluffs Symphony Orchestra. (Images: TR)
Tartu Academic Male Choir Concert North American Tour
including the Toronto Men's Choir at the August 22nd, 2025 Toronto performance
Music is a part of our Estonian heritage characterized by unique folk music tradition called regilaul (runic song), large-scale Song and Dance Festivals that foster national identity, and a thriving contemporary classical and popular music scene. Music has served as a power fool for unity and resistance, particularly during the Singing Revolution against Soviet occupation.
On Friday, August 22nd, St. Peter’s had the privilege and honour of hosting the Tartu Academic Male Choir while they were on their North American Tour. Being the oldest male choir to have been continuously singing since the year 1912 (113 years ago), the Tartu Academic Male Choir has established its honourable place in Estonian history and choir singing.
The Toronto Men’s Choir, the opening number so to speak, were the first to perform, singing several songs from their repertoire, directed by Avo Kittask. Next came the main event.
Directed by Roland Viilukas, the large audience that had gathered was captivated the moment the choir began to sing, their deep, rich voices reverberating within the excellent acoustics of the sanctuary of St. Peter’s. It was easy to see why TAM is the oldest active men’s chorus in Estonia and has been the highest rated male voice choir in Estonia for the last 10 years.
The choir’s first song of the concert, most appropriate in light of the venue, was Arvo Pärt’s “Seven Magnificant “Antiphons: II O Adonai”. Composed in 1988, the seven short verses or prayers, is based on seven antiphons sung in the Roman Catholic liturgy during Evening Prayer on the seven days leading up to Christmas Eve. One Antiphon with a magnificent (the Song of Mary) each day. In many languages these are also known as the Greater Antiphons or O-Antiphons, because each of them begins with a respectful appeal to Christ. St. Peter’s audience was lucky enough to hear the appeal “O Adonai”, the Hebrew word meaning “my Lord”.
The concert went on to include works by Veljo Tormis, Tõnu Kõrvits, Pärt Uusberg, Ester Mägi, Valter Soosalu, Miina Härma, Villem Kapp, Rein Rannap. The concert concluded with the Toronto Male Choir joining in on the singing of Gustav Ernesaks’ “Hakkame, mehed, minema”.
At the conclusion of the concert, flowers and gifts were presented to and from St. Peter’s, along with an honorarium from the church to help the choir cover travel expenses. TAM presented a lovely glass sculpture to the Toronto Men’s Choir on behalf of their 75th anniversary.
Concert guests that also stayed to join the choir at the dinner that followed, were treated to several more songs in the church basement. Dinner eaten, coffee & kringel enjoyed, time was spent making new friends and acquaintances late into the evening.
Thank you TAM for such a wonderful evening of music and fellowship!
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ABOUT - Tartu Academic Male Choir - 113 years of male choir
Being the oldest male choir to have been continuously singing since the year 1912 (113 years ago), the Tartu Academic Male Choir has established its honourable place in Estonian history and choir singing. The everlasting spirit has withstood all the difficulties that history has thrown its way.
The Tartu Academic Male Choir (TAM) is the oldest active men’s chorus in Estonia. Since being established in 1912 it has been a pillar of culture during the brighter, as well as the darker times of the country’s history and has played a major role in developing and preserving male voice choir music. The 113 years of servitude has brought joy to thousands of listeners home and away, bringing the choir numerous top awards from different competitions. TAM has been the highest rated male voice choir in Estonia for the last 10 years (according to the local male voice choirs’ contest). The choir’s repertoire comprises very diverse music – classical male voice choir pieces play an important role, but contemporary music and folk music arrangements are also some of the favourites. The choir’s most beloved composers are probably maestros Veljo Tormis and Gustav Ernesaks, but maestro Alo Ritsing who has also stood in front of the choir for more than 50 years can not be left unnoticed – his music has a special place in TAM’s heart. A spark can also be seen in the singers’ eyes when operatic pieces are being performed. During the years, many conductors have worked with the choir and as of now, the responsibility lies on the shoulders of Roland Viilukas, who started as the chief conductor only a year ago. Together with Made Ritsing, they stand for the high artistic level of the Tartu Academic Male Voice Choir.
Roland Viilukas - Chief Conductor
Roland Viilukas started his musical journey in the Heino Eller Music College. He has acquired a bachelor’s degree (in the class of professor Tõnu Kaljuste) and a master’s degree (in the class of professor Toomas Kapten) in choral conducting at the Estonian Academy of Music and Theatre. He has also studied orchestral conducting with professor Jüri Alperten and composition with Alo Põldmäe, and also taken part in different master classes, including Pablo Marqués Mestre (Conservatorio Superior de Música deCastilla-La Mancha Albacete, Spain) and professor Toomas Kapten (Estonian Academy of Music and Theatre).
As a conductor, Roland Viilukas has worked with many choirs, including the mixed voice choir and orchestra of the Estonian Academy of Music and Theatre, chamber choir Collegium Musicale, Estonian National Male Choir, mixed voice choir HUIK! etc. Since 2016 he is also a singer of the Estonian Male Choir. In the autumn of 2024 he started as the chief conductor of the Tartu Academic Male Choir.r
Tartu Akadeemiline Meeskoor on teadaolevalt vanim järjepanu tegutsenud meeskoor Eestis. Juhan Simmi poolt 1912. aastal asutatud koor on olnud oluline kultuurikandja nii helgematel kui hämaramatel aegadel ning mänginud tähtsat rolli meeskoorimuusika edendamisel ja säilitamisel. 112 tegutsemisaasta jooksul on TAM rõõmustanud kümneid tuhandeid kuulajaid nii Eestis kui väljaspool kodumaa piire ning pälvinud arvukalt kõrgeid hinnanguid erinevatelt konkurssidelt. 2023. aastal toodi juba teist korda järjest Tartusse esikoht Eesti Meestelaulu Seltsi Gustav Ernesaksa nimelise meeskooride võistulaulmise kõrgeimas kategoorias. Tartu Akadeemilise Meeskoori repertuaarist leiab väga eriilmelisi teoseid – loomulikult on oluline koht meeskooriklassikal, aga meeleldi esitatakse ka nüüdismuusikat ja rahvamuusika seadeid. Koori lemmikheliloojateks võib pidada ilmselt maestroid Veljo Tormist ja Gustav Ernesaksa. Märkimata ei saa jätta üle 50 aasta koori ees seisnud Alo Ritsingut, kelle loomingul on TAM-i suures südames eriline koht. Samuti löövad lauljate silmad särama ooperikoore esitades. Aastate jooksul on Tartu Akadeemilise Meeskoori juhatanud mitmed nimekad dirigendid ning täna on koori peadirigendi vastutus värskelt ametisse asunud Roland Viilukase õlgadel, kellele tänane kontsert on ühtlasi ka esimene omataoline TAM-i ees. Lisaks aitab koori kunstilist taset kõrgel hoida Made Ritsing.
Roland Viilukas alustas muusikuteed Tartu Heino Elleri nimelises muusikakoolis Lauri Breede klassis. Tänaseks on Viilukas omandanud bakalaureusekraadi (prof. Tõnu Kaljuste klass) ning magistrikraadi (prof. Toomas Kapteni klass) kooridirigeerimises Eesti Muusika- ja Teatriakadeemiast. Lisaks on ta täiendanud end orkestridirigeerimises prof. Jüri Alperteni juures, õppinud heliloomingut Alo Põldmäe juhendamisel ning võtnud mitmeid meistriklasse sealhulgas Pablo Marqués Mestre (Conservatorio Superior de Música deCastilla-La Mancha Albacete, Hispaania) ja prof. Toomas Kapteni (Eesti Muusika- ja Teatriakadeemia) juures.
Dirigendina on Viilukas teinud koostööd mitmete kollektiividega, sh Eesti Muusika- ja Teatriakadeemia segakoor ja orkester, kammerkoor Collegium Musicale, Eesti Rahvusmeeskoor, Segakoor HUIK!, jt. Alates 2016. aasta sügisest laulab Roland Viilukas ka Eesti Rahvusmeeskooris. Tartu Akadeemilise Meeskooriga alustas Viilukas koostööd 2024. aasta sügisest.
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