Three elderly nuns in their 80s have bravely escaped from a care home to return to their beloved convent in Elsbethen, just outside Salzburg. Sisters Bernadette (88), Regina (86), and Rita (82), the last remaining members of the Kloster Goldenstein convent, felt a deep sense of homesickness and dissatisfaction in their temporary residence. I am so pleased to be home, Sister Rita expressed, highlighting a profound connection to the place where they had dedicated most of their lives. The sisters, aided by former students and a locksmith, broke into their convent as they sought to reclaim their former lives after being transferred against their will in December 2023.
Sister Bernadette voiced their shared sentiment, stating, We weren't asked; we had the right to stay here until the end of our lives, which was broken. Despite church authorities expressing concern over the nuns' health conditions and the loss of proper care facilities at the convent, the trio insists on remaining in the place they cherish. The nuns' return has ignited a debate, with Provost Markus Grasl from the Abbey of Reichersberg describing their actions as completely incomprehensible.
However, community support is strong. Students from the past have come forward to help supply food, and electricity and water have been partially restored to the convent. Videos depict the nuns engaged in everyday activities, reinforcing their desire to stay put as they continue to inspire those around them. As Sister Bernadette poignantly stated, Before I die in that old people's home, I would rather go to a meadow and enter eternity that way.\
Sister Bernadette voiced their shared sentiment, stating, We weren't asked; we had the right to stay here until the end of our lives, which was broken. Despite church authorities expressing concern over the nuns' health conditions and the loss of proper care facilities at the convent, the trio insists on remaining in the place they cherish. The nuns' return has ignited a debate, with Provost Markus Grasl from the Abbey of Reichersberg describing their actions as completely incomprehensible.
However, community support is strong. Students from the past have come forward to help supply food, and electricity and water have been partially restored to the convent. Videos depict the nuns engaged in everyday activities, reinforcing their desire to stay put as they continue to inspire those around them. As Sister Bernadette poignantly stated, Before I die in that old people's home, I would rather go to a meadow and enter eternity that way.\
