The Heartwarming Story of Three Nuns in Austria
In a touching turn of events that transcends borders, three nuns—Sisters Rita, Regina, and Bernadette—have escaped their retirement home to return to the convent where they spent most of their lives. The story has captured hearts and spurred extensive media coverage across Austria, highlighting both the sisters’ resilience and the issues surrounding elder care.
A Bold Decision to Reunite
At ages 81, 86, and 88, these sisters decided in early September to take a stand against their unexpected placement in a retirement home. They had been moved there without prior notice by their religious authorities in late 2023, a decision they found distressing. Their return to the convent of Goldenstein, a building steeped in history and beauty, is not just a personal victory but a statement against how elderly individuals can sometimes be treated.
Community Support and Celebration
On a recent Saturday, the nuns were welcomed back by nearly twenty former students and supporters, who came to share prayers and a meal with them in the convent’s chapel, located near Salzburg. The atmosphere was nothing short of magical, with the stunning mountainous backdrop adding to the warmth of their reunion.
Criticism of Church’s Actions
Criticism of the church’s decision to relocate the nuns has been rampant. Eva-Maria Seeber, a former student, stated, “It is cruel to move elderly individuals this way. They should have remained in the place they loved.” In response, the church has justified the transfer by citing the declining health of the nuns and claiming it was necessary for their wellbeing.
Disputed Claims and Reconciliation Efforts
The nuns themselves dispute the church’s narrative, asserting they were never consulted about their relocation. They were labeled as “severely demented” to rationalize the decision, a characterization they vehemently oppose. Sister Bernadette recalled their escape vividly: “It was a sunny day when our prayers were answered. With the help of our supporters—nearly 150 individuals—we managed to leave the retirement home and return to our convent. A locksmith helped us gain access, and we were able to enter our cells without any trouble.”
Returning to Their Roots
Upon returning, the nuns faced a shocking reality. Their rooms had been stripped bare, devoid of personal belongings, and the convent lacked basic amenities like running water and electricity. Yet, their spirits remained high. Supporters noted an immediate transformation in the nuns’ demeanor, stating, “They have flourished since returning home. They are happy and vibrant once more.”
Looking Ahead
The nuns are hopeful for reconciliation with the church, expressing a desire to stay in their beloved convent for the remainder of their lives. Sister Bernadette emphasized the importance of keeping promises, lamenting that the church had broken its commitment to provide them with lifelong residence at the convent.
Continuing Community Engagement
A fundraising initiative has been launched to support their needs, and the nuns’ supporters are actively sharing their daily lives on social media. In one particularly uplifting video, Sister Rita is seen jogging in her habit to the iconic theme music from the movie “Rocky.” This heartwarming display has resonated with many, emphasizing the sisters’ spirits and zest for life despite their advanced ages.
Conclusion
The story of Sisters Rita, Regina, and Bernadette serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of compassion and respect for the elderly. It challenges societal notions of care and autonomy, advocating for the rights of individuals to choose where they live and how they spend their twilight years. Their journey is about more than just escaping a retirement home; it is a profound testament to their enduring faith and community support.
