Diocese Celebrates Four Decades of Service to Carola Gans
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A dedicated community leader, Carola Gans, recently retired after 42 years of service to the diocese, culminating in heartfelt farewell services held on October 26th in Dresden. Her impact, particularly on the lives of children and young people, was widely celebrated by attendees and colleagues alike.
A Longstanding Commitment to Community
Since November 1, 2025, Carola Gans has embarked on a well-deserved retirement, marking the end of a remarkable career. The farewell celebrations took place at the parish of St. Elisabeth Dresden, with the primary events centered in Zschachwitz, where she dedicated many years to her work. The Holy Family Church was filled to capacity for both a morning family service and an afternoon celebratory service, demonstrating the breadth of her influence.
Overflowing Celebrations in Dresden
The October 26th services drew large crowds, with the morning service organized by the children’s pastoral group and a local youth band. The afternoon service featured performances from the “Vierklang” community choir and the “Plan Y” band. Following the services, a gathering in the community hall provided further opportunity for well-wishers to express their gratitude, with the hall reportedly overcrowded during both sessions.
A Legacy Focused on Youth
For nearly 25 years, beginning in 2001, Carola Gans served in Dresden-Zschachwitz, and later within the community of responsibility and the parish of St. Elisabeth. A key focus of her work was nurturing the spiritual and personal growth of children and young people, leaving a lasting impact on multiple generations. As one attendee noted, “Her dedication to the youth was truly inspiring.”
From Riesa to a Diocesan Pillar
Carola Gans began her career as a community officer – initially known as a pastoral care assistant – in 1983, following her upbringing in the parish of Riesa. She served in various parishes including Schleiz, Crimmitschau, and Engelsdorf, with representatives from the latter two communities present at her farewell. For many years, she also served as the children’s pastor for the Dresden deanery, where her annual children’s tent weeks in Zinnowitz – often hosting between 150 and 200 participants – became legendary.
The article was written by Pastor Michael Gehrke.
