Top Austrian priest to retire early after scandal over female companion
Father Anton 'Toni' Faber, a prominent Austrian priest, will retire early amid controversy over his public appearances with a female companion. His lifestyle has drawn criticism from the Catholic community, leading to complaints about his compatibility with priestly duties. Faber plans to continue his ministry in some capacity while discussions about his future with the Vienna Archbishop are ongoing.
- ▪Father Anton 'Toni' Faber has been the chaplain of St. Stephen's Cathedral since 1997.
- ▪He has faced backlash for attending high-society events with a woman named Natalie Nemec, presented as his partner.
- ▪Faber's retirement will take effect next year when he turns 65, earlier than the usual retirement age of 75.
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News Top Austrian priest to retire early after scandal over female companion Fr. Anton ‘Toni’ Faber, one of Austria’s most famous priests, sparked outrage for appearing at high-society events with a blonde woman presented as his partner. Father Anton 'Toni' FaberWikimedia Commons AndreasWailzer 0 Andreas Wailzer Comments 0 Tue May 26, 2026 - 12:05 pm EDT VIENNA (LifeSiteNews) — A priest who has repeatedly appeared with a female companion in public will retire as chaplain of Vienna’s St. Stephen’s Cathedral after public backlash. Father Anton “Toni” Faber, who has been chaplain of Austria’s most famous cathedral since 1997, will be replaced by another priest next year.
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