Oldest Catholic priest, Father Bruno Kant, dies at age 110

Father Bruno Kant, the world’s oldest priest, has died at the age of 110 after his faithful ministry in the Church for more than 75 years.

Born in 1916 in Werblin, near Puck, in the former territory of West Prussia (now in Poland), Father Kant’s path to the priesthood was interrupted by the upheavals of the Second World War.

While studying philosophy and theology in Braniewo and Freiburg im Breisgau, he was drafted into the Wehrmacht and later taken prisoner by Soviet forces.

After returning to Germany in 1948, he resumed his studies and was ordained a priest in Fulda Cathedral in 1950.

Over the following decades, he served the faithful with quiet dedication, remaining active in pastoral ministry long after his official retirement in 1991.

Even in his later years, he maintained close ties with parishioners at St. Giles Parish in Petersberg-Marbach, where he was deeply loved and respected.

Father Kant celebrated his 110th birthday on February 26, 2026, receiving tributes from across the Diocese of Fulda, including a personal letter from Pope Leo thanking him for his decades of faithful priestly service.

Remembered for his humility, kindness, and deep spirituality, Father Kant often credited prayer as the secret to his long life.

In announcing his death, the Diocese of Fulda said his priestly witness, steadfast faith, and lifelong commitment to the people he served would remain an enduring inspiration for future generations.