The Society of Johannes Esto was founded on the 6th of April 1994. The objective of the society is to enhance activities in the fields of education and culture (publishing books, organizing seminars and cultural events) and to develop social work (help the senior citizens, young families, single parents and unemployed persons). 


Johannes Esto was one of the first Jesuits of Estonian origin. The Jesuit Order pursued its activities in Tartu in the end of the 16th century and in the beginning of the 17th century. Johannes Esto became a member of the order in 1593. When Tartu was conquered by Sweden in 1601, he was taken as a prisoner to Sweden. Johannes Esto was 48 years old when he died as a martyr in Arbogas in 1603.