Meet the World's Oldest Person, A 116-Year-Old Nun and Her Timeless Faith

Brazil, January 10, 2025: Sr. Inah Canabarro, a 116-year-old nun from Brazil, has been recognized as the world’s oldest living person following the death of a Japanese woman on December 29, 2024. Born on June 8, 1908, Sr. Canabarro’s remarkable age has been validated by LongeviQuest, an organization dedicated to tracking supercentenarians globally. Currently wheelchair-bound, she is the 20th oldest person ever recorded, with the record held by France’s Jeanne Calment, who lived to 122 years.

Sr. Canabarro attributes her extraordinary longevity to her Catholic faith—praying the rosary every day. She is cherished for her joyful spirit and unwavering love for soccer. Born into a large family in southern Brazil, she embraced religious life as a teenager. Her journey included two years of service in Montevideo, Uruguay, followed by work in Rio de Janeiro and later returning to southern Brazil.

The 116-year-old nun’s life has been marked by milestones, including being honored by Pope Francis on her 110th birthday. She is now the second oldest nun in history, following Sr. Lucile Randon of France, who lived to 118 years.

By Catholic Connect Reporter