The future of three elderly nuns at the Schloss Goldenstein convent in Salzburg hangs in the balance as they await a decision from the Vatican regarding their stay. Sisters Rita, Regina, and Bernadette, all in their eighties, have been embroiled in a dispute with their superior, Markus Grasl, since they fled a care facility he had mandated for them. The situation has garnered international attention, but the sisters have now chosen to retreat from social media to focus on their spiritual well-being during the Advent season.
In a statement released on December 6, 2023, the sisters indicated they were responding to a request from the Vatican to “spend Advent and Christmas in inner peace and reflection.” The nuns’ quiet chapel contrasts sharply with the media frenzy that surrounded them earlier this year. In September, their decision to return to the convent with a tabloid in tow led to accusations from Grasl that they were violating their vows.
While the initial atmosphere was charged, Sisters Rita, Regina, and Bernadette have now opted for silence in the public eye. This followed an agreement from Grasl allowing them to remain at the convent “until further notice,” contingent on their withdrawal from social media and press interactions. The sisters rejected this arrangement, interpreting it as a gag order.
As they await the Vatican’s resolution, both parties have appealed for a “just and humane, and sustainable solution.” Vatican officials have acknowledged their efforts to address the situation, yet a definitive response has yet to be communicated.
Social Media Dynamics and Internal Disputes
The nuns’ daily lives revolve around liturgical practices, yet they have also attracted a significant following on social media. Their Instagram account boasts over 280,000 followers, showcasing their activities, including Sister Rita’s boxing sessions. This newfound fame, however, has not been well received by Grasl’s spokesperson, Harald Schiffl, who stated, “The sisters’ social media presence has very little to do with real religious life.”
Despite the criticism, Sister Rita expressed enjoyment in the social media interactions, noting, “The boxing sessions were fun.” Sister Bernadette, on the other hand, emphasized that their online presence was intended to inspire others and spread their faith, rather than to promote themselves.
The nuns have distanced themselves from the Instagram account, claiming that none of the posts were approved by them. Their statement declared that any continued activity on the account during their social media hiatus would be against their will.
The internal conflict regarding their digital presence highlights deeper issues. Christina Wirtenberger, a former student now aiding the sisters, has voiced concerns about the management of the account, asserting that consent for content was not adequately established.
Financial Struggles and Legal Issues
Amid the ongoing tensions, the nuns face significant financial challenges. They have lost access to their pensions, which are managed by Grasl, leading to allegations of financial mismanagement. According to Wirtenberger, Grasl wrongfully claimed state benefits for their care, which has compounded the sisters’ difficulties.
Grasls’s spokesperson confirmed that welfare payments have been returned, asserting that there was no wrongdoing, and insisted that the situation was resolved. Karin Gföllner, Salzburg’s district commissioner, indicated that the provost had not provided complete details regarding the nuns’ financial circumstances to the authorities.
As the sisters await further word from the Vatican, Sister Bernadette has reaffirmed her commitment to pray for Grasl, expressing hope for a resolution guided by faith. “We simply hope that God’s hand will guide what happens,” she stated, emphasizing their reliance on divine intervention in these challenging times.
