Prioress Gassmann receives honorary doctorate: “I am totally overwhelmed”

The priest of the Benedictine monastery in Fahr has been awarded an honorary doctorate from the Faculty of Theology at the University of Fribourg. “The many reactions I have received show me that this is a great encouragement for many people in our church,” says Irene Gassmann. The honor came as a “complete surprise” to her.

Barbara Ludwig

You have been awarded an honorary doctorate. Did you expect it?Prioress Irene Gassmann: This honor came as a complete surprise to me. I had never thought of anything like this and am overwhelmed.

“This honour is also an honour for all my fellow sisters.”

What does the award mean to you personally?

Gassmann: This great honor touches and moves me deeply. It makes me grateful for my life, for the abilities I have been given, and for the opportunities that life has given me. This honour is also an honour for all my fellow sisters. Without my community, my life could not have unfolded as it has. I am grateful for all my companions with whom I can travel. Being on the journey together strengthens and encourages me.

Your assessment: What can the award achieve in the church?

Gassmann: The many responses I have received show me that this award from the University of Fribourg greatly encourages many people in our church, especially now in the synodal process. It is also a tribute to religious life – especially when many communities suffer from an aging population.

“All of this encourages me to continue to stand up for a credible church.”

The tribute summarises what I live every day as a Benedictine nun: “Innovation and renewal can grow from the deep layers of church tradition. It is a constant process of creative fidelity.” This encourages me to continue advocating for a credible church.

The interview was conducted in writing.Prioress Irene Gassmann spoke in March in the kath.ch podcast “Laut + Leis” about life in the convent and how she is committed to renewal and equality in the Roman Catholic Church despite resistance.