A habit worth keeping

PEALS of laughter emanate from the parlour as I sit outside in the cobbled yard, waiting to go inside.

Two smiling ladies walk out, and I enter the convent.

Eight nuns in brown robes are standing behind a metal grille laser-cut with doves, stars and curlicues. Biscuits, coffee and fruit sit beside beautiful flower arrangements, and two large golden-hued icons are on display to welcome lay women who may be considering a vocation.