“Now I am going to heaven” Brother Jordan said. These were his last words. We stand before his tomb a simple yet profound monument to a life of faith. This is the Grabstätte Jordan Mai in Dortmund. Here rests Brother Jordan Mai a Franciscan friar deeply loved and revered. He was born Heinrich Theodor Mai on September 1 1866 in Buer Westphalia. He was a humble man a simple laborer and soldier before entering the Franciscan order in 1895. He took the name Jordan. He lived a quiet life in the Franciscan friary in Dortmund. His life was marked by profound spirituality and selfless service to others. He was known for his tireless prayer and acts of charity. He spent countless hours in prayer often interceding for sinners. After a tabernacle was stolen from the Dortmund monastery shortly before Christmas 1921 he offered his life in penance. He died on February 20 1922.
His death marked the beginning of an outpouring of devotion. People flocked to his grave. Soil from his grave was even taken overseas. The sheer number of pilgrims required the cemetery to protect the grave with a grate and a covering. His remains were transferred in 1950 to the Franciscan Church in Dortmund. Nearly 100000 people attended this moving event. The Grabstätte Jordan Mai was originally located in front of the altar. It was later moved to the right side aisle of the Franciscan Church in the mid-1960s. Brother Jordan’s life is one of simple faith and extraordinary devotion. His story echoes through this humble grave. It inspires countless people to this day. He is considered one of the most popular religious figures in Germany. His cause for beatification remains ongoing. His legacy of faith and service continues to inspire hope and devotion in Dortmund and beyond. His devotion earned him the title “the St Anthony of Dortmund”. This Grabstätte Jordan Mai is not just a grave it is a testament to the power of faith and the enduring legacy of a humble servant of God. Take a moment to reflect on the life of Brother Jordan. Let his story resonate within you.