Brother Meinrad (Albert) Wambacher was called to his eternal home on December 10, 2024. Born in 1944, in Hundhagen, he grew up in a devout family of love and simplicity. Influenced by his family and Fr. Burkhard Bohuslav OSB, who baptized him, his spiritual formation began early.
Brother Meinrad trained as a mason and served in the Austrian Armed Forces before responding to his vocation, joining Lambach Abbey as a candidate in 1965. He professed his simple vows in 1967 and his perpetual vows in 1970.
Throughout his life, Brother Meinrad dedicated himself to prayer, manual labor, and community life. A skilled mason, he applied traditional techniques in the abbey’s maintenance and contributed to agricultural and forestry work. Passionate about the preservation of the cultural landscape, he maintained the abbey’s surroundings and worked in his workshop until his final days.
Known for his modesty and frugality, he lived a life of simplicity long before sustainability became a modern concern. His deep faith and humility inspired those around him. Though sparing with words, his rare insights were marked by wisdom and kindness, earning him the respect of his fellow monks and visitors alike
On 7 December 2024, Brother Meinrad suffered a medical emergency and, despite intensive care, never regained consciousness. He passed away peacefully on December 10. Brother Meinrad’s quiet dedication and faith-filled life remain a testament to the monastic calling and the Rule of St. Benedict. May he rest in eternal peace.