The ABBESS is the superior of a group of nuns. An ABBESS is a female religious leader who is in charge of a convent or monastery. She is responsible for the spiritual and temporal welfare of the nuns under her care. The ABBESS is also responsible for the day-to-day operations of the convent or monastery, including the administration of its finances and the supervision of its staff. The ABBESS is usually elected by the nuns and is answerable to the bishop of the diocese.