Three nuns from the Augustinian order are closer to staying in their convent near Salzburg after escaping a care home last year. Bernadette, Regina and Rita, now old enough to be in their eighties, returned to Schloss Goldenstein in Elsbethen following support from former pupils and local allies.<\/p>\n
The sisters entered the convent home in September with help from supporters, sparking international attention. The Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith in the Vatican has not yet issued a final ruling, and a decision could take months.<\/p>\n
A Vatican source told Austrian media that the Holy See is broadly in favor of allowing the sisters to remain at the castle convent, though no official decision has been published. Local aid has kept the trio under constant care and security.<\/p>\n
Provedita Grasl, provost from Reichersberg Abbey, had argued the convent was unsafe for the nuns due to stairs and aging conditions. The nuns contest the move to the care home, citing stabilitas loci, the vow of permanence in religious life.<\/p>\n
Supporters have helped refit locks and reinstall a stair lift, ensuring access to the convent. The nuns had appealed to Pope Leo XIV, seeking intervention to stay in their home, a request now connected to the Vatican\u2019s ongoing review.<\/p>\n
A donor or donors in Rome funded a planned trip to Rome for the nuns within two months, with medical staff in tow. The aim is an audience with the pope, according to church observers and regional media.<\/p>\n
An aide to the sisters confirmed the travel plan, noting the sisters are excited to visit Rome, a first for them. Vatican watchers say the visit could influence the outcome of the case as the DDF finalizes its guidance.<\/p>\n
The nuns gained a substantial following on social media, where they shared daily life and fitness updates to support their stay. They paused regular posts late last year, in line with Vatican guidance to bolster their chances of remaining in the convent.<\/p>\n
Officials have indicated the Vatican is seeking a just and sustainable solution to the dispute, with channels open for dialogue. The Guardian has sought comment from the nuns\u2019 spokesperson.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"