From 27.04-05.05, the life of Blessed Eduard Profittlich were presented in the United States at the invitation by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. The Tallinn Diocese was represented in Washington DC by Father Tomasz Materna, from Tallinn, Sts. Peter and Paul Parish, and Marge Paas, the vice-postulator of the beatification process.
The purpose of the visit was to share the story of Archbishop Eduard Profittlich, his fidelity to Christ, and his martyrom at a time when the people of Europe and Estonia were experiencing the suffering of totalitarian regimes.
Through several meetings and lectures, the life of Blessed Profittlich was introduced to American Catholics, emphasizing his spiritual legacy and message for the modern world.
An exhibition about Blessed Eduard Profittlich opened in Washington DC, which will soon travel to other major cities in the United States. The exhibition has attracted great attention and is helping to bring the historical experience of the Estonian Church and people through faith and suffering to a wider public.
A significant moment during the visit was a meeting at the Mother Teresa Institute with Father Brian Kolodiejchuk, MC, the postulator for the canonization of Saint Mother Teresa. Father Brian shared a heartfelt message to Estonian Catholics, inviting everyone to love Jesus with all their hearts. This meeting brought deep spiritual communion and encouragement to Estonian Catholics on their path of faith.
In addition, lectures on Blessed Eduard Profittlich were held at several Catholic universities. Interest in the history of the Estonian Church and those who suffered for their faith during communism was lively and sincere.
The delegation also visited the Museum of Victims of Communism in Washington, DC, where the victims of totalitarian regimes were commemorated and the importance of freedom, faith, and human dignity was emphasized.
The Diocese of Tallinn expresses its heartfelt gratitude to the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops., which has been an important supporter of the beatification process of Archbishop Eduard Profittlich SJ and the events related to it over the years.
Special thanks also go to Mrs. Jennifer Healy for the warm, cordial welcome that accompanied the entire visit and left the participants with grateful and joyful memories.
The trip was supported by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.