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Diocese of Fulda Celebrates 80th Birthday of Long-Serving Priest Professor Dr. Gerhard Stanke

From seminary rector to vicar general, Stanke's influence has been profound. Today, the diocese pays tribute to his dedication.

In this picture there is a church in the center of the image.
In this picture there is a church in the center of the image.

Diocese of Fulda Celebrates 80th Birthday of Long-Serving Priest Professor Dr. Gerhard Stanke

Today marks a significant day for the Diocese of Fulda as they celebrate the 80th birthday of Professor Dr. Gerhard Stanke, a man who has dedicated over four decades of his life to serving the diocese in various capacities.

Born on November 4, 1945, in Throem, Upper Silesia, Stanke was ordained a priest in Fulda Cathedral on April 4, 1971. He began his service as the rector of Fulda’s diocesan seminary from 1980 to 2002, shaping the future of the clergy. His influence extended beyond this role; he was also a full professor of moral theology at the Faculty of Theology in Fulda from 1991 to 2004.

Stanke's leadership continued as vicar general of the Diocese of Fulda, a position he held from 2008 to 2019. Even after stepping down from these leadership roles, he remained a dedicated pastor, staying close to the people. In 2020, he temporarily resumed the role of vicar general to ensure a smooth transition in diocesan leadership.

A solemn service of thanksgiving will be held today at Fulda’s Stadtpfarrkirche at 11:30 a.m. to honour Professor Dr. Gerhard Stanke's decades of service and dedication to the Diocese of Fulda. His profound impact on the diocese is undeniable, and his 80th birthday is a fitting occasion to celebrate his contributions.

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