Three other octogenarian nuns — Sister Bernadette, Sister Regina and Sister Rita — have gotten a brief reprieve. They are allowed to keep living at Goldenstein Castle in Elsbethen, Austria. The nuns made a dramatic comeback to their old digs this September. First, they illegally re-entered the convent, against the orders of their religious leaders. The nuns, all of whom are former teachers at the neighboring school, still receive tokens of support from local residents and former students.
Sister Bernadette, 88, Sister Regina, 86, and Sister Rita, 82, took on Provost Markus Grasl of Reichersberg Abbey. He claimed that they needed to relocate to a Catholic seniors’ home for their protection. As Provost Grasl explained, the nuns no longer felt safe behind their convent’s depressing crumbling stone walls. The nuns have garnered a wave of support from locals. They pay for their basic necessities including food, clothing, medical care and security that help them cope with their atypical environment.
The convent nuns sought freedom from the institution that proved unresponsive to their needs. They fearlessly continued on to Goldenstein Castle. Their return—which was only possible due to a recently installed chairlift—now gives them access to their third-floor cells. Church officials said they had agreed to let the nuns remain at the convent “for as long as necessary.” Here’s the catch—they aren’t allowed to use social media in that time.
The nuns have strongly objected to such conditions as requiring them to pay for their stay. In a statement, they remarked, “In particular the promise as reported in the media, that the sisters would be allowed to remain in the convent, lacks any legal force… due to the inclusion of the clause: ‘until further notice’ and is therefore legally worthless.” Underlying this sentiment is their fear of the vulnerability of their position and the stranglehold of restrictions upon them.
Even in their advanced years and health issues, the nuns are resolute in their desire to retain control over their residences. They view social media restrictions as a means of “depriving them of their only remaining protection from the interested public.” Echoing the importance of this statement, it highlights their need for privacy and autonomy as public interest in their story continues to grow.
The nuns are now taking shelter at Goldenstein Castle. Church officials say that should their condition deteriorate, they will be moved onto a list for a nursing home in the nearby Elsbethen. This requirement introduces instability into the only home they may have known. They are risking their health while counting on the unwavering support of their community.
Supporters have not given up, and they’re continuing the fight to help the nuns. Friends and former students continue to provide essential services and care, ensuring that the nuns can live comfortably while at the convent. The community’s spirited participation beautifully illustrates the closeness shared by the nuns and their alumni. This natural connection strengthens their joint dedication to keeping everyone healthy and safe.