The Candlelight Revolution they called...
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"The Candlelight Revolution" they called it. That was the astounding revolutionary change that swept Eastern Germany, in fact much of Eastern Europe during the closing months of 1989. And, it was a peaceful revolution. Thousands of church people poured out into the streets in the night carrying lighted candles praying for the end of totalitarian rule and the advent of democratic freedom. They stayed, refusing to budge. Although helpless before military might they stood their ground in a silent, eloquent witness. And then, what was thought impossible, actually happened. Governments toppled without firing a shot in many cases. Dramatic changes in political, economic and social, and yes religious life seemed to be effected overnight.
What kept people expecting that such a change could come after 40 years of restrictions and suppression? Gradually, the stories began to be told that it was the resurrection faith that kept the people going, hoping through these long years. Indeed, they had been believers like Mary who on the first Easter morn could testify "I have seen the Lord."
-- Hasler
What kept people expecting that such a change could come after 40 years of restrictions and suppression? Gradually, the stories began to be told that it was the resurrection faith that kept the people going, hoping through these long years. Indeed, they had been believers like Mary who on the first Easter morn could testify "I have seen the Lord."
-- Hasler
