Flood in Hønefoss

30.08.2023

Father Josef Ottersen and seven sisters of the parish of St. Teresia in Hønefoss, Norway, had to leave their monastery after storm "Hans" hit. The extreme storm caused the three major rivers in Hønefoss, on which the monastery is located, to rise rapidly and create a waterfall-like flood. According to their own information the sisters were then told to pack their bags and leave the sisters' house as soon as possible, the danger of a landslide due to the flooding was too big. 

The flood damage caused by the storm "Hans" to the convent and rectory in Hønefoss, Norway, cannot yet be estimated. One thing is certain: the water has already reached the foundations. It is currently being checked which damages will be covered by the insurance.

Meanwhile the Sisters of the Holy Cross and Father Josef Ottensen were lucky: They were able to find temporary accommodation in a hotel, where they were even allowed to use a room for Holy Mass. This is because St. Teresa's Church is located in the evacuation area. The Bonifatiuswerk has been supporting the monastery for several years through building aid. Only last year, the modernisation of the sanitary facilities and piping in the sisters' house was approved with a grant of  Euro 20,000. 

(mos)