Estonia

After centuries of Swedish and Russian rule, Estonia attained independence in 1918. Forcibly incorporated into the USSR in 1940, it regained its freedom in 1991 with the collapse of the Soviet Union. Since the last Russian troops left in 1994, Estonia has been free to promote economic and political ties with Western Europe.

Estonia is the most northern Baltic State. Protestantism and Estonian Orthodoxy comprise the largest religious groups. Estonia saw much spiritual growth during re-establishment of their independence. Economic concerns overwhelm most Estonians, as evidenced in a suicide rate, one of the highest in the world.

YWAM in ESTONIA:
In the 70s and 80s, YWAMers began to minister to the youth of Estonia. This reached its highpoint when YWAM Finland took on the challenge to reach out to their neighbor to the East. Finnish YWAMers took Bibles and teaching tapes and then organized an underground DTS. This laid a foundation for several years of very fruitful ministry in Estonia.

YWAM Estonia is small, but stepping into new areas. The youth are the most receptive part of society. Ministry opportunities have also opened in schools, risons and youth detention centers.

prayer needs:
- praise God for more opportunities for Christians in society and politics.
- for continuing openness for the Christian influence and evangelism in Estonia.
- for Christians in the country to embrace and invest in evangelism and missions.