As of March 1, a new opportunity has opened to participate in Mass in Mustamäe. Masses take place every Sunday at 12:30. The priest responsible in Mustamäe is Father Giosue Schirru. The Catholic Church uses the EELK Mustamäe Mary Magdalene parish house as the venue for the Masses. This is a fresh initiative whose aim is to bring the Church closer to people and to offer a spiritual home also to those for whom reaching the cathedral is difficult.
The birth of the initiative and first experiences
“Bringing the Mass to Mustamäe was born on the bishop’s initiative. He saw the need to support those faithful who live farther from St. Peter and St. Paul’s Cathedral of Tallinn and who therefore find it difficult to participate in Mass regularly. This new opportunity helps overcome obstacles arising both from distance and from the time required,” Father Giosue noted. “The beginning has been encouraging. Although these are only the first steps, it is felt that the undertaking is necessary and carries a deeper meaning both for the organizers and for those attending Mass.”
So far, three Masses have been celebrated in the Mustamäe Mary Magdalene church, each attended by an average of 35 people. Although this is a good start, the spacious, modern, and light-filled church could accommodate considerably more people. We especially invite younger people to take part in the Mustamäe Masses. Spaciousness and light are the greatest values of this church. First impressions from those who have attended Mass have been positive. They are satisfied and highly value the new opportunity.
Liturgy and the community’s contribution
Developing liturgical life is a natural part of the formation of a new community. Everyone who wishes to help with preparing for Mass—whether arranging the space or organizing the liturgical items—is very welcome. Please contact the priest before Mass.
Singing also requires special attention. At present, simpler songs are used, but the congregation hopes to find members who could contribute musically. The church also has a synthesizer that could be used. Still, it is important to note that singing has not been absent up to now—it has been rather modest and quiet, but it has been there. Therefore, there is room for development in carrying out the musical part of the Mass.
Cooperation with the Lutheran congregation
The Mustamäe Mass would not be possible without the support of the local Lutheran Mary Magdalene congregation. Their reception has been warm and hospitable from the very beginning. The Diocese of Tallinn thanks them for this kindness.
The first contact with this congregation took place already at the 2025 Taizé meeting, where the same open and supportive attitude was experienced. Thanks to their help and willingness to accommodate, the new initiative has become a reality, and for this they are deeply grateful. Many thanks. We hope that there will soon be other events as well.
Joint activities and future plans
“At the moment, there are not yet any regular joint activities after Mass, but this has been considered. In the future, it is not excluded that the congregation will begin to organize joint meetings or other initiatives that help to strengthen the mutual bond,” added Father Giosue.
Everything is also still taking shape regarding the involvement of children and families. Decisions are made according to need and the situation. For example, a step has already been taken toward an international community—after the sermon in Estonian, a short summary is given in English in order to include participants who do not speak Estonian as well. “Welcome to the English-speaking community!”
The question of how to reach people in the Mustamäe area better is still open. There are no clear answers yet, but the congregation is moving forward step by step, looking for suitable ways and solutions. After all, the future and joint activities depend on each person’s contribution.
A very important practical question is parking. In the Old Town it is completely impossible, but in Mustamäe it is possible. Around the church there are several parking places where you must use a parking disc. Some of them allow free parking for up to one and a half hours, others for up to two hours.
Easter celebrations in Mustamäe?
Father Giosue explains that a liturgically busy period lies ahead of us: Holy Week is beginning and although it is not possible to celebrate the Easter Triduum in Mustamäe in its full extent, as it remains at the cathedral on Vene Street, the Mass of Easter will take place on 5 April, at the usual time at 12:30 in Mustamäe at the St. Mary Magdalene parish.
In summary, the whole undertaking is new and challenging for the organizers, yet at the same time a deeply supportive activity. The greatest support is the knowledge that this path is not walked alone – there is support from the bishop, co-workers, and the entire Church community. “It is a joy to see that the Church is not static, but living and moving – together with people who are ready to contribute, to come, and to grow together,” Father Giosue added in conclusion to the short interview.