Background on the Nuns and Their Conflict with the Vatican
A Spanish court has issued an order for a group of nuns who defied the Vatican and were subsequently excommunicated to vacate a 15th-century convent they have been occupying. The ruling, announced on Friday, supports the Spanish Catholic Church, which sought legal action to remove the rebellious nuns who refused to leave.
Who are the Nuns?
The nuns in question are part of a group of nine residing in the convent of Santa Clara, located in Belorado, a small town near Burgos in the Castilla y León region. This convent is a 15th-century religious site in the heart of Belorado, which has a population of approximately 1,800.
Reasons for the Conflict
The dispute began in May 2024, when the nuns declared their intention to break away from the Vatican, labeling Pope Francis as an “usurper.” The conflict escalated due to a real estate disagreement, with the nuns claiming that the Vatican had obstructed their attempts to purchase another convent.
Accusations and Charges
The Vatican accused the nuns of aligning themselves with a sect associated with “sedevacantismo,” a movement that considers all popes succeeding Pius XII (1939-1958) as heretics.
Court’s Decision and the Nuns’ Response
The court in Burgos ruled that the nuns must vacate the convent, giving them an opportunity to do so voluntarily without specifying a deadline. If they fail to comply, forceful eviction will be enforced.
During a court hearing in Briviesca, the nuns argued that the monastery belonged to them. Sister Paloma, one of the nuns, stated to journalists that they would appeal the decision if eviction was ordered.
The court’s ruling referenced a property certificate from Belorado’s Registry of Property, which confirmed that the nuns presented no valid claim or legitimate documentation to support their occupation of the convent.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who are the nuns involved in this case? The nuns are part of a group of nine residing in the convent of Santa Clara, located in Belorado, a small town near Burgos.
- What led to the conflict between the nuns and the Vatican? The disagreement began due to real estate issues, with the nuns claiming that the Vatican hindered their attempts to purchase another convent. Additionally, the nuns accused Pope Francis of being an “usurper,” further escalating tensions.
- What were the nuns accused of by the Vatican? The Vatican accused the nuns of associating with a sect linked to “sedevacantismo,” which considers all popes succeeding Pius XII as heretics.
- What was the court’s decision, and how did the nuns respond? The Spanish court ordered the nuns to vacate the convent, giving them a chance to do so voluntarily. If they refuse, forceful eviction will be enforced. The nuns argued in court that the monastery belonged to them and stated they would appeal if eviction was ordered.
