Georg Häfner

Georg Häfner (1900–1942)

Georg Häfner was a German Roman Catholic priest who became a martyr for his faith during the Nazi era. Born in Würzburg, he came from modest beginnings and pursued theological studies, eventually joining the Third Order of Discalced Carmelites. He was ordained a priest in 1924 and served in various chaplaincies before becoming pastor of Oberschwarzach in 1934.

Life and Historical Context

Häfner's resistance to the Nazi regime began early in his pastoral career. He refused to perform the Nazi salute and was subsequently banned from giving religious education at the local school in Oberschwarzach, forcing him to conduct classes in secret. His sermons and teachings were critical of the Nazi regime, leading to frequent interrogations by the Gestapo.

A critical incident occurred in August 1941 when Häfner was called to administer last rites to a seriously ill Nazi party member. He insisted the man sign a deathbed confession invalidating his second civil marriage before God. Following this, Häfner was denounced by another party member and arrested by the Gestapo. Despite efforts by Vicar-General Franz Miltenberger to intervene, Häfner was transferred to the 'priest block' at Dachau Concentration Camp on December 12, 1941, without a court order. His prisoner number was 28876.

Martyrdom and Beatification

Georg Häfner died in Dachau on August 20, 1942, as a result of the severe abuse and malnutrition he endured. His remains were later moved to the crypt of the Neumünsterkirche in Würzburg. The process for his beatification involved an episcopal survey from 1992 to 2002. In 2009, Pope Benedict XVI issued a decree recognizing Häfner as a martyr.

The beatification ceremony took place on May 15, 2011, at the Kiliansdom in Würzburg, with the motto "simple, believing, consistent." His life and martyrdom have been commemorated through various events and honors, including a scenic oratorio and the renaming of a square in Würzburg near his childhood home.