Three Austrian nuns in their 80s have been allowed to remain at their former convent, Kloster Goldenstein, near Salzburg, after initially being moved to a care home against their will in December 2023. Sister Bernadette, 88, Sister Regina, 86, and Sister Rita, 82, reclaimed their residence in September with assistance from former students, which sparked discontent among church officials.
In the latest development, church authorities have stated that the nuns can stay at the convent as long as they cease their social media activities. The nuns, who have gained significant attention on platforms like Instagram and Facebook, expressed their dissatisfaction with the conditions, describing the arrangement as akin to a “gagging contract.”
Harald Schiffl, a spokesman for the Provost, indicated that the nuns must adhere to specific conditions to remain, including limiting access to parts of the convent and stopping their online posts. In exchange, they would receive medical care and spiritual support. The nuns’ superior, Provost Markus Grasl, previously emphasized the importance of returning to the care home, labeling the nuns’ actions as “completely incomprehensible.”
The nuns have highlighted their long connection to the convent, which has served as both a religious community and a school since 1877. Sister Bernadette, having attended the school herself, recounted that she would prefer death over remaining in a care home.
At the time of the agreement from church officials, it was noted that the nuns would have no legal recourse if they chose to remain at Kloster Goldenstein under the outlined conditions. This situation has drawn significant public interest, particularly given the nuns’ past contributions to the community and their longstanding residence at the convent.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c0l9z176lnlo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss