BIOGRAPHY

Rosalie Huber was born on her parents’ farm in Rottal-Inn, Bavaria, Germany, on 29 September 1908, as one of nine children (three brothers and six sisters). Growing up in Schernberg near Falkenberg, she felt a deep calling to become a nun from an early age. However, a childhood illness almost dashed her hopes of joining the Dominican order. She faced repeated rejections and was told “no” time and again. But as her health gradually improved, her wish was granted, and the Dominican order finally accepted her.

At the age of 15, she enrolled in the adult education school (German: “Volksfortbildungsschule”) in Niederviehbach, where she spent three years training in vocational skills such as sewing, bookkeeping, and home economics. A diligent and enthusiastic student, she consistently earned high marks. Her dream was realized on 9 May 1930, at the age of 21, when she joined the Dominican Sisters in Niederviehbach, a convent that at the time housed over 100 sisters. She spent the next 88 years of her life in Niederviehbach and never regretted her decision to enter the convent. At 109 years old, when asked if she would make the same choice today, she responded confidently, “Yes, of course!”

A skilled master tailor, she worked in the convent’s sewing room for many years, crafting habits for the sisters and handling repairs. She also took great pleasure in ironing the laundry. Even in her later years, she continued embroidering, creating intricate altar cloths, chalice cloths, and tablecloths for the convent.

At the age of 109, she could still read with ease, even without glasses. Despite being in a wheelchair, she faithfully attended all prayer times and daily services in the monastery church. She dedicated much of her time to prayer, offering her intentions for the Pope, for vocations, and for her religious order.

When asked about the secret to her longevity, she attributed it to prayer, a consistent daily routine, simplicity, and, most importantly, contentment. She also believed that a good sense of humor plays a vital role in living a long life. Reflecting on her age, she once said, “The Lord has simply forgotten me.” She also shared how her last surviving sibling, a sister, passed away in the spring of 2018 at the age of 104.

Sister Konrada passed away in Niederviehbach, Bavaria, on 14 May 2019, at the age of 110 years, 227 days.

RECOGNITION

Her age is currently under review.

ATTRIBUTION

* “Das Rezept für ein langes Leben” – Mittelbayerische Zeitung, 5 October 2017

* “Zu Besuch bei der ältesten Ordensfrau Deutschlands” – Katholische Kirche in Deutschland, 30 January 2018

* “Älteste Nonne der Welt feierte 110. Geburtstag” – Bistum Regensburg, 12 October 2018

GALLERY