Max Knorr becomes a priest for 70 years - a life full of faith and devotion

Max Knorr becomes a priest for 70 years - a life full of faith and devotion

On June 29, 2025, a very special day will be celebrated in Kempten: Pastor Max Knorr, who has been a priest for 70 years, is celebrating his impressive priestly anniversary. The 99-year-old retired clergyman, who lives in Stiftallmey, has influenced many parishioners and celebrated numerous church services over the course of his long career. He has received support for 65 years from his parsonage wife, Annemarie Zill, who, at the age of 89, continues to be at his side and provides valuable help. Despite health challenges, particularly an eye condition that makes it difficult for him to read, he remains connected to the church and remains active in his prayers every day.

A highlight of his career was heading the Ascension Parish in Kempten for almost 25 years, where he made a significant contribution to the creation of several new buildings, such as the church in Freudental and the Marienheim. Max Knorr, who grew up in Regensburg, Bavaria, and completed an apprenticeship as a retail salesman, found his way into the Order of the Discalced Carmelites in 1950 and was ordained a priest just five years later.

Versatile tasks and commitment

After his first assignments, for example in Höchstädt and Tutzing, Knorr also spent a few years in the parish of Auchsesheim before moving to Kempten in 1965. He carried out his last pastoral service in Krugzell until 2012. Even now, in his old age, he is active and enjoys going for walks. He used to be an enthusiastic traveler who often traveled to South Tyrol and Switzerland and enjoyed music - as a solo guitarist and piano player he knew how to put a smile on people's faces.

Although a large celebration or thanksgiving service for his anniversary is not possible for health reasons, numerous well-wishers are expected to send him their congratulations. Unfortunately, he cannot take part in the anniversary evening planned for priests in St. Ottilien, which he is certainly sorry about.

The Ascension Parish

The Ascension Parish, where Max Knorr worked for a long time, is an important religious center in the Auf dem Lindenberg district in Kempten. The community is characterized by a lively atmosphere and the active participation of its members. Traditional celebrations, such as the Corpus Christi parade with a lovingly designed flower carpet in front of the outside altar, are a trademark of the parish. Open-air events are highly valued by visitors. Those interested in attending the church are advised to check the exact service times and contact details as these are not always published.

Parish contact information is as follows:

• Name: Katholische Kirche Christi Himmelfahrt
• Adresse: Freudental 10a, 87435 Kempten (Allgäu), Deutschland
• Telefon: +49 831 5405600
• E-Mail: [email protected]
• Website: www.stlorenz.de

Pastor Max Knorr will remain firmly anchored in the memories of many parishioners as a formative figure in the history of the Ascension Parish and beyond. This connection to God and the passion for his service are also felt in the words of Pope Francis, who emphasizes that the central question of the priesthood is always “Do you love me?” should be, and which emphasizes the importance of love and faith, which are essential to the life of a priest as also mentioned here.

The upcoming anniversary will therefore not only be a celebration of Max Knorr's 70 years of service, but also an opportunity for the community to pause and show gratitude for all that he has given for the people.