Home in Faith: Lecture on the Catholic Church and helping displaced people

Home in Faith: Lecture on the Catholic Church and helping displaced people

An important lecture event will take place in Dresden on November 7, 2025. Under the topic “Home in Faith. The Expellees and the Catholic Church in the GDR” Peter Bien from the association “Erinnerung und Treffen e.V.” give a lecture on the role of the Catholic Church in the reception, care and integration of displaced persons in the GDR. The event begins at 5:00 p.m. in the Dresden-Prohlis Community Center, Gamigstraße 26. Admission is free, and all interested generations are cordially invited to exchange ideas and find out more about this important topic. According to [bistum-dresden-meissen.de], around 4.4 million displaced persons from the German East and Eastern Europe came to the Soviet Zone/GDR after the Second World War, including 1.7 million Catholics.

Displaced people and their integration

The question of how the Catholic Church acted during this difficult time is of great relevance. Many people who were expelled from their homeland sought new refuge in the GDR. In the years following the war, the church played a central role, not only providing assistance but also providing a place of community and faith. A good reason to deal with this period of history and understand how these experiences have influenced today's society.

The speaker Peter Bien not only addresses the challenges that the displaced people were faced with, but also highlights how the church as an institution has made a contribution to integration. The image from back then and the stories handed down can help to build a bridge between generations and show how important it is not only to remember the past, but also to actively shape it.

Technical questions and solutions

While preparing for the event, technical questions may arise, for example when registering or presenting the content. To ensure that everything runs smoothly, it may be necessary to get to grips with technology. If you notice problems such as missing sound or audio, IT experts recommend updating the audio drivers. According to [support.microsoft.com], updating or even reinstalling the drivers in Device Manager is often enough to ensure perfect sound. Well-functioning technology is often the key to ensuring that solutions and information can be conveyed clearly.

Here’s to an exciting exchange!

Such an event is not only intended to spread knowledge, but also to promote exchange between generations. This is of immense importance at a time when memories of what was are more important than ever. The gathering at the Dresden-Prohlis Community Center promises to be an opportunity to hear old stories and learn new ones - all in an open and inviting setting. All generations are invited and entry is free! A real reason to stop by and be part of this important discussion.