In the early hours of 14 October 2026, after a prolonged period of suffering, Father Maximilian Vollmann OSB, Vicar in the Pastoral Area of St. Lambrecht, completed his earthly pilgrimage. Born in 1946 in Mariahof, he entered the Benedictine monastery in 1965, receiving the religious name Maximilian. He made his solemn profession in 1969 and was ordained a priest in 1971, after studying theology at the University of Salzburg.
Father Maximilian began his pastoral ministry in St. Lambrecht in 1972 and briefly served in Mariazell. He was parish priest of Neumarkt from 1974 to 1982 and again from 1994 to 2020, while also caring for pilgrims at Maria Schönanger. Following the diocesan reorganisation, he supported closer cooperation among the parishes of the Pastoral Area of St. Lambrecht. From 2020 onwards, he served as vicar in its parishes.
Father Maximilian was greatly appreciated by the communities he served. Through his down-to-earth homilies, he touched many hearts and, inspired by the Second Vatican Council, sought to connect the Christian faith with everyday life. Despite recurring health difficulties, he remained dedicated to his pastoral ministry and his confreres. His lifelong enthusiasm for computers and technology was another distinctive feature of his life. We give thanks for his faithful service and commend him to the Lord.