Richard Henkes was a German Catholic priest belonging to the Pallottine order who lived from 1900 to 1945. Known for his courageous preaching, he frequently used his position in the pulpit to denounce the atrocities committed by the Nazi regime, including the murder of people with disabilities. His vocal opposition and indirect support for the German resistance eventually led to his arrest by the SS. He spent his final years in the Dachau concentration camp, where he died after contracting typhus while caring for sick inmates.
Life and ministry
Born in Ruppach-Goldhausen, Henkes joined the Pallottines in 1919 and was ordained in 1925. He worked primarily as a teacher in various schools and was recognized as an effective preacher and retreat master. During his ministry, he battled tuberculosis, which required periods of recuperation. His commitment to his faith and his outspoken criticism of the Nazi government led to his first arrest in 1937, though he was later released.
Imprisonment and death
Following a second arrest in 1943 for his political statements, Henkes was sent to the Dachau concentration camp. While imprisoned, he befriended Josef Beran, who taught him the Czech language. In late 1944, Henkes volunteered to assist patients suffering from typhus in the camp's infirmary. Through this service, he contracted the disease and passed away in early 1945. His ashes were secretly removed from the camp for burial in Limburg.
Veneration
The movement to recognize Henkes' sanctity gained momentum in the late 20th century through the efforts of former camp inmates and clergy. After the diocesan process was completed, Pope Francis approved his beatification. He was officially declared Blessed on September 15, 2019, in Limburg Cathedral. He is commemorated by the Catholic Church on February 21.