The Diocese of Tallinn (Estonia) announced that on December 18, 2024, Pope Francis approved the beatification of Archbishop Eduard Profittlich SJ (1890-1942), a Jesuit who died in Kirov prison on February 22, 1942, before his death sentence could be carried out.

This marks a historic moment for Estonia and the Estonian Catholic Church. According to the Diocese, Archbishop Profittlich, guided by his faith and the Pope's suggestion, chose to stay in Estonia despite the opportunity to return to his native Germany. His steadfast commitment to his vocation and the people of Estonia led to his martyrdom in Soviet Russia.

The Roman Catholic Church has awaited this event for over 21 years, making it the first beatification in Estonian Catholic history and one of the first in Scandinavia since the 16th century. This decision holds immense significance for the Catholic community in Estonia.

Preparations for the beatification will begin in 2025, with the ceremony expected to take place in the spring. Details about the time and location will be announced by the Diocese. Notably, this event coincides with the Catholic Church’s Jubilee Year 2025, adding to its global importance and solemnity.

Eduard Profittlich SJ was born in Birresdorf, Germany. After studying philosophy and theology in Valkenburg, he moved to Poland in 1922, where he earned doctorates in both fields. He served as a parish priest in Poland and Germany before being sent to Estonia in 1930 to support the Catholic Church’s mission. Appointed apostolic administrator in 1931 and later archbishop by Pope Pius XII in 1936, Profittlich became an Estonian citizen, learned the language, and embraced the culture. His dedication greatly enhanced the Church’s pastoral work in Estonia.

In June 1941, the Soviets arrested Profittlich and imprisoned him in Kirov, where he was sentenced to death. He died in prison on February 22, 1942, remaining faithful to his calling until the end.