Question About Convents...

[MarysLittleFlower]

Someone I know told me that they read/heard in a documentary that in convents, the Mother Superior 'owns' all the money that the convent has. I've never heard of this. I don't know which source this is from, or if it was talking about all convents or just some, or if this was talking about the past or present...

 

I was just wondering, was this ever the case or is it now? Or was this source mistaken?

 

I'm not claiming at all that this is the case... I'm just wondering how to reply :)

 

What I said originally in reply is that Sisters don't have personal possessions like money, it belongs to the community...

 

I would appreciate any information... thanks!

Edited November 28, 2012 by MarysLittleFlower

[OnlySunshine]

Your friend is mistaken.  Due to the vow of poverty, no religious can "own" anything -- least of all the money that the community holds in common.  She may act as the bursar and dispense the funds as she sees necessary (while consulting with the Father General or Bishop if necessary), but the money does not belong to her.  :)

[MarysLittleFlower]

Thanks for the quick reply! :) I'll let them know...

[cmaD2006]

"Someone I know told me that they read/heard in a documentary that in convents, the Mother Superior 'owns' all the money that the convent has. "

 

Maybe it was during the "Our America" documentary that covered nuns/sisters?  Lisa Ling did misspeak a number of times and I can see her saying something crazy like that.