The Congregation at Usma

The village of Usma (about 90 miles west of Riga) sits on the edge of Lake Usma. Harina Bruklene, the founder of the Usma congregation, transformed a building from the 1930s (originally a school, later a Communist collective center) into a retreat center call the “Usma Christian Folk School.” During the winter months, the Usma congregation holds worship services here.

Construction of a new church building at Usma started in 1997, and work is still progressing. In December 1999, 43 area farmers donated lumber for the church. Worship services are held here during the summer months.

The congregation currently has 54 members.

Christian Education
• Each week, Pastor Ugis and Harina Bruklene teach Christian Faith to children ages 6 to 11 in the Usma Elementary Public School.
• Classes for adults are also offered, based on Luther’s Small Catechism.

Youth Ministry
Members of the Usma Youth:
• Help Pastor Ugis with Sunday worship service – leading prayers, organizing the altar and leading music
• Conduct monthly outreach events
• Minister in nursing home and hospital
• Enjoy excursions with friends from Finland