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Germany's oldest priest celebrates 100 years of faith and service

From ordination in 1955 to daily Mass today, his journey reflects a lifetime of devotion. A rare milestone for a man who never stopped serving.

The image shows a man in a priest's robes standing in front of an archway in a church. He is...
The image shows a man in a priest's robes standing in front of an archway in a church. He is wearing a black and cream colored dress and is holding a stick in his hand. To the side of him are a few plants with flowers, and the wall behind him is adorned with intricate carvings.

Germany's oldest priest celebrates 100 years of faith and service

Father Max Knorr, the oldest priest in the Diocese of Augsburg, has celebrated his 100th birthday. Born in Regensburg, he has spent nearly seven decades serving the Church since his ordination in 1955. Even in retirement, his daily celebration of Mass remains central to his life. Father Knorr began his priestly journey in 1955 after being ordained. His early years included roles as a chaplain in Tutzing and Durach. Later, he became parish priest in multiple communities: Auchsesheim, Christ's Ascension in Kempten, Obermaiselstein, and Bühl am Alpsee.

He retired 30 years ago, yet his devotion to the faith never waned. Daily Mass continues to be a cornerstone of his routine, reflecting a lifetime of dedication. Now, at 100, he remains a respected figure in the diocese. Father Knorr's century-long life has been marked by service and faith. His daily Mass and decades of ministry leave a lasting legacy in the Diocese of Augsburg. The milestone of his 100th birthday highlights a life committed to the Church.

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