Sister Inah Canabarro, a Brazilian nun with an unwavering devotion to her Catholic faith and a passion for soccer, stands as a testament to human longevity. Born in southern Brazil on June 8, 1908 (though family records suggest a slightly earlier date of May 27th), Sister Canabarro has witnessed over a century of history unfold, navigating through two World Wars, technological revolutions, and societal shifts. Now, at the remarkable age of nearly 117, she has been recognized by LongeviQuest as the world’s oldest living person, inheriting the mantle following the passing of Japan’s Tomiko Itooka in December 2024. Her life, dedicated to religious service and punctuated by the vibrant colors of her beloved soccer team, offers a compelling narrative of faith, resilience, and the simple joys that contribute to a long and meaningful existence.
Sister Canabarro’s journey began within a large family in southern Brazil. As a teenager, she felt a strong calling towards religious life, a path that led her to Montevideo, Uruguay, for two years before she eventually settled in Rio de Janeiro and finally returned to her home state of Rio Grande do Sul. This commitment to her faith has been a constant thread woven throughout her life, providing a source of strength, purpose, and community. Her devotion was recognized even by the highest authority within the Catholic Church when Pope Francis honored her on her 110th birthday. This recognition places her in the esteemed company of other long-lived nuns, including Lucile Randon, who held the title of world’s oldest person until her passing at the age of 118 in 2023. Sister Canabarro now stands as the second-oldest nun ever documented, her life a testament to the intertwining of faith and longevity.
Beyond the walls of her religious community, Sister Canabarro’s life has been brightened by the vibrant world of soccer. A devoted fan of the local club, Sport Club Internacional, affectionately known as Inter, she has followed their journey since the club’s founding shortly after her own birth. Her room, adorned with the team’s red and white colors, reflects her deep-seated affection for the club. This passion for soccer isn’t merely a passive pastime; it represents a connection to her community, a shared source of joy and excitement. The club, recognizing her unwavering support, celebrates her birthday annually, honoring her as their oldest fan. This mutual appreciation exemplifies the power of sports to connect generations and foster a sense of belonging.
The recognition of Sister Canabarro as the world’s oldest person is not simply a statistical milestone; it is a celebration of a life well-lived. Her nephew, a constant source of support and connection, visits her every Saturday, bridging the gap between generations. Between these visits, he sends voice messages, a lifeline of communication that brings a spark of joy to her days, especially following recent hospitalizations. The simple act of hearing a familiar voice evokes a palpable excitement, a testament to the enduring power of human connection. These interactions underscore the importance of maintaining bonds with loved ones, particularly in the latter stages of life, providing comfort, stimulation, and a sense of continuity.
Sister Canabarro’s story serves as an inspiration and a window into the factors that contribute to exceptional longevity. While genetics undoubtedly play a role, her life suggests other crucial elements: a deep-rooted faith, a sense of purpose, engagement with the world around her, and the nurturing bonds of family and community. Her unwavering faith has provided a framework for her life, a source of meaning and resilience. Her passion for soccer has kept her connected to the vibrancy of life, offering shared experiences and a sense of belonging. And the consistent presence of her nephew, along with the support of her fellow nuns, has ensured that she remains enveloped in love and connection.
In a world often obsessed with the pursuit of youth and the fear of aging, Sister Canabarro’s life offers a different perspective. Her story is not merely about reaching an exceptional age; it’s about living a full and meaningful life, embracing both the joys and challenges that each day brings. Her devotion to faith, her passion for soccer, and the unwavering support of her family and community have woven a tapestry of resilience and longevity, a testament to the human spirit’s capacity to thrive even in the face of advancing years. Her life reminds us that true longevity is not simply measured in years, but in the richness of experiences, the strength of connections, and the enduring power of the human spirit.
