A group of octogenarian nuns from the convent at Schloss Goldenstein in Salzburg, Austria, is currently awaiting a crucial decision from the Vatican regarding their residency in the convent. The sisters—Sisters Rita, Regina, and Bernadette—have temporarily ceased their social media activities at the Vatican’s request for a period of reflection during Advent and Christmas.
The nuns’ situation has garnered significant media attention throughout 2023. Earlier this year, they made headlines when they reportedly broke into their convent, accompanied by a prominent local tabloid, after being relocated to a care home against their wishes. This move led to accusations from their superior, Markus Grasl, who claimed the sisters had violated their vows. Despite initial tensions, Grasl agreed last month to allow the sisters to remain at the convent, but only under strict conditions, including a cease in social media activity and communication with the press.
In a statement provided to the media, Sister Bernadette recounted the challenges of their daily prayer routines. “We continue to pray for the provost,” she stated. The sisters spent six weeks praying for Grasl, but found the practice exhausting and decided to limit it to weekly Mass.
As they navigate this complex situation, the sisters have expressed their desire for a resolution. They have appealed to the Vatican, which has promised to work on a “just and humane, and sustainable solution” to their predicament. The Vatican has not yet provided a timeline for when a decision might be reached.
Social Media Controversy and Internal Disputes
While the nuns await word from the Vatican, their social media presence has sparked controversy. With over 280,000 followers on Instagram, the account @nonnen_goldenstein showcases the sisters engaging in various activities, including boxing sessions. However, the provost’s spokesperson, Harald Schiffl, has criticized this online portrayal of religious life, claiming it detracts from their spiritual mission.
Sister Rita, at 82 years old, has embraced the social media spotlight, remarking, “The boxing sessions were fun.” Yet Sister Bernadette insists that their online presence was designed to spread their message of faith rather than attract personal attention. The sisters have distanced themselves from the management of the Instagram account, asserting that they did not approve many of the posts that have appeared.
In their recent statement, the nuns expressed gratitude to their followers for their support, noting that without media coverage, they would have been “defenseless and helpless” against the actions of Grasl. They described their recent publicity efforts as a survival strategy, highlighting their financial struggles since being removed from the convent two years ago.
Christina Wirtenberger, a former student who now assists the sisters, disclosed that the nuns have lost access to their pensions, which are now managed solely by Grasl. She alleges that the provost wrongfully claimed state benefits meant for the nuns’ care, a claim that has been denied by Schiffl, who stated that the situation has been resolved.
Awaiting Resolution
As the sisters continue their prayers for Grasl, they remain hopeful for a favorable outcome from the Vatican. Sister Bernadette stated, “We simply hope that God’s hand will guide what happens.” The nuns are seeking to have Grasl relieved of his duties concerning their order, emphasizing their need for peace and autonomy.
The situation at Schloss Goldenstein highlights the intersection of faith, media, and authority within the church, as these aging nuns navigate their desire for independence in a modern world that increasingly intersects with digital presence. As they await the Vatican’s decision, the sisters embody a unique blend of resilience and devotion, remaining committed to their spiritual practices even amid uncertainty.
