FUNDRAISING GALA DINNER
On November 21, in cooperation with the Lutheran Church Seminary, we hosted a fundraising gala dinner, inviting Estonian entrepreneurs to support theological education. The event took place in the seminary’s largest classroom and welcomed 43 guests, raising $17,680 by the end of the evening.
As you know theological school is not a business endeavour; its long-term sustainability relies on the generosity of donors. Our first gala dinner was held in the spring of 2018, followed by another in 2019. Unfortunately, the events were paused due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine. We are now resuming this tradition with a goal of organizing two annual fundraising dinners:
- A spring gala in Tartu at the Home of Hope, dedicated to supporting mission work acitivities.
- An autumn gala in Tallinn, focused on raising funds for academic theological education – training pastors, pastoral caregivers, chaplains, church musicians and other church workers.
We are encouraged by the willingness of Estonians to recognize the importance of this work. Our aim is to grow the community of those with a heart for mission and increase local contributions to our annual budget.
Here are some photos from the gala dinner.
$0.5 MILLION RAISED IN ONE YEAR
A year ago, the Home of Hope mortgage stood at $1 million. In just one year, we’ve made incredible progress – the remaining balance is now $540,471, with $21,500 in available matching funds. We are truly grateful to the many individuals and congregations who have supported us on this journey. We praise the Lord for His mercy.
Although the official due date was November 15, the Estonian Evangelical Lutheran Church, our lender, has kindly extended our payment period through the end of the year without penalty. If additional time is needed we will begin loan renegotiations in January.
The journey is not over and your continued partnership is essential.
CURRENTLY, WE FACE A CHALLENGE. Our communications have largely focused on funding the Home of Hope mortgage, and as a result, our 2024 operating budget is short by $40,803. We need your help to bridge this cap.
Have a blessed Christmas!
Pastor Siimon Haamer
President of Tartu Academy of Theology
