Monastery objects to street name for vanished nun, proposes honoring all educators

The Sint-Vicentiusklooster in Dendermonde has lodged an objection against the city's plan to name a street after Sister Gabrielle, who vanished under mysterious circumstances in 1982. The monastery proposes a different name that they believe would honor the collective contributions of all the sisters, directors, and teachers associated with the institution.

Earlier in May, the city council had advanced the proposal to name the street 'Zuster Gabriellehof' (Sister Gabrielle Court), finding it respectful and clear, and noting its connection to the historical location. The council also highlighted that 2026 marks the 100th anniversary of Sister Gabrielle's birth, making the timing particularly significant for a commemorative street name.

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More than 150 years has the Congregation dedicated itself to education in this city. Many sisters, directors, and teachers of the Sint-Vicentiusinstituut have given their best for thousands of children and young people for years.

However, the Sint-Vicentiusklooster argues that for over 150 years, the Congregation has been dedicated to education in the city. They emphasize the dedication of numerous sisters, directors, and teachers who devoted themselves to thousands of children and young people. Consequently, they propose naming the street 'Vincentius-pad' (Vincentius Path) instead, to acknowledge the broader legacy of the institution. The monastery has initiated a petition supporting their proposal, which has gathered approximately 86 signatures. The city has stated it will not comment further until the public inquiry period for the street name concludes, after which the plans will be re-evaluated.

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The name refers respectfully and clearly to Sister Gabrielle and her connection to this historic location.