Estonians remember Marian roots,
look to Pope’s visit
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| A statue of Mary at Tallinn's Catholic Cathedral. |
As Pope Francis makes his one-day Apostolic Journey to
Estonia on Tuesday, the country’s tiny Catholic community is recalling its
history as ‘Land of Mary’ and the visit of Pope St. John Paul II, 25 years ago.
By Devin Watkins – Tallinn, Estonia
Tears filled her eyes as she told the story.
The Vicar General of the Bridgettine Sisters recalled the
many sacrifices and struggles her sisters had to endure to return to Estonia.
Their convent near Tallinn, in Pirita, was founded before the Reformation in
1406. The nuns endured that tumultuous period and went on to thrive until the
Soviet occupation in 1940. Then they were forced to close.
The Bridgettines returned some 23 years ago, after Pope St.
John Paul II visited after the fall of communism. Now they host his successor,
Pope Francis, for lunch on Tuesday, as he takes a moment from his busy schedule
to rest in this place of peace.
Archbishop Edward Profittlich
On the wall where the Pope takes his lunch is a picture of a
man whose story encapsulates the struggle of Catholics in Estonia: Servant of
God Edward Profittlich.
He was the first bishop of Estonia, and was carted off by
the Soviets to die in a forced-labor camp in Siberia. His cause of canonization
will soon reach Rome.
His name is etched alongside more than 130,000 others at a
state memorial to the many people who died during the Soviet occupation.
A memorial plaque also adorns the entrance to the Cathedral
of St. Peter and St. Paul, where Pope Francis meets with the local people
helped by the Church’s works of mercy. Edward Profittlich is a witness to the
strength of faith in times of tribulation.
25 years of change
Pope St. John Paul II came here 25 years ago, not long after
the fall of the Soviet Union. His visit helped the tiny Catholic community
rebuild and rediscover its roots.
Now, with some 70% of the population claiming to be
non-religious, this technologically and democratically advanced nation is
looking for substance and something more to live for besides just another Euro
in the pocket. Thus the motto for Pope Francis’ visit: “Wake Up, My Heart.”
Marian Lands
Long ago, Pope Innocent III proclaimed the Baltics, Terra
Mariana, or the Land of Mary. Even the Lutheran Cathedral is dedicated to
Mary, and has a picture of her on display, something unheard of elsewhere.
Now, Pope Francis is travelling through these Marian Lands,
reminding people of their heritage.
Maybe his quick visit can awaken something in the hearts of
Estonians. As the tearful Bridgettine sister said: “Remember the past, be
rooted, and hope in the future.”
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