Sister Inah Canabarro: A Life of Faith, Football, and Exceptional Longevity
Sister Inah Canabarro, a Brazilian nun with an unwavering devotion to her Catholic faith and a passionate love for soccer, has been recognized as the world’s oldest living person at the remarkable age of nearly 117. Her extraordinary lifespan, validated by LongeviQuest, an organization dedicated to tracking supercentenarians, has captivated the world and sparked curiosity about the secrets to her longevity. Born into a large family in southern Brazil in 1908, Sister Canabarro’s life journey has intertwined with the growth of her beloved soccer club, Inter, and the enduring strength of her spiritual calling.
Sister Canabarro’s journey to becoming the world’s oldest living person began with the passing of Tomiko Itooka in Japan at the age of 116 in December 2024. LongeviQuest’s meticulous research, involving the examination of early life records, confirmed Sister Canabarro’s age and cemented her place in the annals of human longevity. While official records indicate a birth date of June 8, 1908, her nephew maintains that her birth was registered two weeks later than her actual birth date of May 27, 1908. This discrepancy, though minor, underscores the challenges of accurately documenting births in the early 20th century and highlights the importance of thorough research in verifying the ages of supercentenarians.
From a young age, Sister Canabarro felt a strong pull towards religious life. As a teenager, she embarked on a path of spiritual dedication, spending two years in Montevideo, Uruguay, before moving to Rio de Janeiro. Eventually, she settled in her home state of Rio Grande do Sul, where she continued her religious work and became an integral part of her local community. Her unwavering commitment to her faith has been a constant throughout her life, providing her with solace, guidance, and a sense of purpose. She credits her faith for her long life, attributing her strength and resilience to her deep connection with the divine. This unwavering spiritual devotion has undoubtedly played a significant role in her ability to navigate the challenges and triumphs of an exceptionally long life.
Sister Canabarro’s devotion extends beyond her religious calling to encompass a fervent passion for soccer, particularly her local club, Inter. This club, founded shortly after her birth, has become an integral part of her life, and she is recognized as their oldest fan. Her room is adorned with gifts in the team’s signature red and white colors, a testament to her unwavering support. The club reciprocates her affection, celebrating her birthday each year and recognizing her as a cherished member of their extended family. Her nephew plays a vital role in maintaining this connection, visiting her every Saturday and sending voice messages throughout the week to uplift her spirits, especially after her recent hospitalizations. These messages, he says, bring a spark to her eyes and a surge of excitement, reinforcing the importance of social connections in maintaining well-being, especially in advanced age.
The intertwining of faith and football in Sister Canabarro’s life provides a fascinating glimpse into the individual passions and connections that contribute to a long and fulfilling existence. Her commitment to her religious vocation and her enthusiastic support for her local soccer club reflect her vibrant spirit and her engagement with the world around her. These interests, seemingly disparate, have provided her with sources of joy, community, and purpose throughout her remarkable life.
Sister Canabarro’s recognition as the world’s oldest living person is not just a testament to her exceptional lifespan but also a celebration of a life lived with unwavering faith, enduring passion, and a deep connection to her community. Her story serves as an inspiration, highlighting the importance of pursuing one’s passions, maintaining strong social connections, and finding solace in spiritual beliefs. These elements, woven together, have contributed to Sister Canabarro’s extraordinary longevity and her enduring spirit, making her a symbol of resilience, faith, and the enduring power of human connection. Her legacy stands as a testament to the richness and complexity of a life well-lived, a life that continues to inspire and captivate the world.
