In a world where religious vocations have dwindled, Shelagh Fogarty explores what draws — and what deters — women from taking the veil.
Joining her are two extraordinary voices from inside the cloister and beyond. Catherine Coldstream spent twelve years as an enclosed Carmelite nun. Her prizewinning memoir Cloistered reveals the beauty and deep flaws of a hidden world few ever see. Liz Dodd, once a journalist and global cyclist, is now a Sister of St Joseph of Peace, committed to serving the poor and marginalized. Her forthcoming book, Easter in Disguise (Bloomsbury, 2026), reflects on faith, identity, and transformation. Together, they speak with Shelagh about the mystery, sacrifice, and enduring pull of religious life — and what it means to commit everything to a calling that few now follow.
If you were unable to attend the live Tablet event, a recording of this event is now available.
Available to purchase until 31 October 2025.
Supported by two women’s religious congregations in the UK