Paide church displays centuries-old liturgical treasures

Paide Holy Cross Church displayed centuries-old consecrated liturgical objects during European Heritage Days, ERR reported. Visitors had three hours on Sunday to view silver communion chalices, baptismal basins, communion vessels and candlesticks.

“People often think there is nothing to see in a church. But in addition to being rich in congregation members, our church also has a great deal to see, including silverware and works of art. That is why we brought out these silver items,” said Aivar-Joel Rikk, chairman of the Paide congregation’s board.

Congregation pastor Andres Tšumakov said that some of the objects are not in very good condition.

“We talk about their meaning and importance. Perhaps, with the help of generous donors, we can also restore some of the objects,” Tšumakov said.

Some of the church’s property is still kept in museums, while the church has also repeatedly fallen victim to thieves.

“On the altar we have two candlesticks with an interesting fate and story. They were once stolen from here, from Paide Holy Cross Church. Fortunately, they ended up with a conscientious antiques dealer, who returned them to the church in 2020,” Tšumakov said.

All of the Paide church’s property has been received as donations and is connected with the town’s history, the work of different craftspeople, people’s gratitude and deep faith.

“I have a chalice in my hands that dates from 1826. It is 200 years old and we use it every Sunday. The names of the donors are also inscribed on it,” Tšumakov said.

He added that a congregation member donated a stained-glass window in the spring and that the church always gratefully accepts such gifts.

“These are not for showing off or boasting. They can sometimes also have practical value. We are certainly grateful when people want to do something good,” Tšumakov said.