Three Austrian nuns in their 80s have bravely fled the care home where they were placed against their will, returning to their beloved convent nestled in the Alps. Sister Bernadette (88), Sister Regina (86), and Sister Rita (82) are the last remaining nuns of the now dissolved Kloster Goldenstein convent in Elsbethen, near Salzburg.
With the assistance of former students and a locksmith, the nuns managed to regain entry to their convent, an action that has caused friction with church authorities. I am so pleased to be home, exclaimed Sister Rita, expressing that she felt homesick during her time in the care home.
The nuns were forcibly relocated in December 2023, a move they claim was executed without their consent. We weren't asked, Sister Bernadette stated, emphasizing the breach of their right to live at the convent until the end of their lives.
Schloss Goldenstein has served as both a convent and a private girls' school since 1877, with the last three nuns having dedicated their lives to teaching there. Unfortunately, the number of nuns has declined over the years, leading to the Archdiocese of Salzburg taking control of the property in 2022.
Although church officials assert that it is no longer safe for the nuns to live independently at the convent due to their health, the triumphant return has been met with enthusiasm from their former students. Many have helped by providing food and support to the nuns.
Initially, upon their return, the nuns faced challenges with no electricity or water. However, they are now settling in, receiving medical attention and enjoying visits from supporters. Former student Sophie Tauscher remarked, Goldenstein without the nuns is just not possible. Sister Bernadette, firm in her resolve, stated, Before I die in that old people's home, I would rather go to a meadow and enter eternity that way.
