Three elderly Catholic nuns in Austria have made headlines after leaving a retirement home to return to their former convent—an act they describe as both a step of faith and a stand for their spiritual rights.

Sisters Rita, Regina, and Bernadette, all in their 80s, were long based at the Goldenstein Monastery in Elsbethen, near Salzburg.

The trio, who spent decades serving in the convent, said they were moved to a retirement facility in Oberalm two years ago against their wishes, despite still being able to care for themselves.

Earlier this month, the sisters made their way back to the now-abandoned monastery with the help of former students and a locksmith.

On arrival, they found parts of the building in disrepair, with blocked kitchen access and no working elevator. However, water and electricity have since been restored.

Sister Bernadette insisted their actions were not criminal, citing a legal agreement allowing them to remain at the convent for life. “We are simply living out our calling,” she told ITV News. “We were promised we could stay until the end of our lives. That’s what we’re doing. This is not a crime or anything like that.”

The nuns, now financially strained after their bank accounts were frozen, are relying on volunteers and supporters for food, medical visits, and prayer.

The convent’s provost described the move as “completely incomprehensible,” saying the rooms were no longer usable and did not meet “the requirements for proper care.”