Matthias' story

Matthias Scheiter was a Christian in East Germany; now he is a representative for Open Doors Germany. He recalls the momentous events of 1989.

"In East Germany, being Christians, we were constrained. Those who were not members of the national children's and youth organisation were often not allowed to graduate from high school and thus were unable to go to college or university. Without being a party member it was difficult to get a qualified job. We knew that agents of the state security force (STASI) attended church services.

"Thursday 9 November 1989 was a normal working day for me. In the evening news I heard that travel was to be facilitated for GDR citizens, with immediate effect. I asked myself: 'Is this a new ploy of the government, meant to appease the population?'

"Never did I imagine that this simple announcement would trigger such a momentum which, in the end, toppled the Wall. My initial reactions were tears and joy.

"My first thought was that finally this era with all its difficulties was going to end! At the same time, I hoped to be able to develop more freely both as an individual and as a Christian – without the continual fear of being watched.

"It was a miracle. For a long time a great many Christians prayed unfailingly. I think this explains why this revolution took place peacefully and without bloodshed.

"Our environment changed radically after the fall of the Wall. The collapse of the economy resulted in high unemployment. Many were compelled to migrate to the 'West'. Christians, too, left and congregations shrunk. But in spite of the new challenges, Christians were grateful for the gift of freedom.

"Pressure from without united us, as Christians, in personal and spiritual terms more closely than nowadays. We used to live our faith more consciously, and we were grateful for the support from the church of the West. Now I want to pass on this kind of help to our persecuted brothers and sisters."