TV reporter who became a nun to speak in Derry

A prominent TV journalist who gave up her career to become a nun will speak at an event in Derry next week.

Martina Purdy was a political correspondent for BBC Northern Ireland for many years.

However, in a surprising move, she announced last year that she was giving up her TV role to enter the convent of the Adoration Sisters.

Martina has accepted an invitation to speak at the Little Way Novena in St Eugene’s Cathedral next week.

The novena will include a number of well-known people speaking about their faith.

Martina will launch the series of talks on Monday, May 11, at 7.30pm.

On Tuesday, May 12, John McAreavey, whose wife Michaela, the daughter of Tyrone GAA manager Mickey Harte, was murdered while they were on honeymoon in 2011, will speak.

Elma Walsh will speak on Wednesday, May 13.

Elma is the mother of Donal Walsh, a young man from Kerry who died from cancer in May 2013.

Donal inspired so many people by his commitment to his faith and the manner in which he faced his death.

The guest speaker on Thursday, May 14, will be David Alton.

David is from Liverpool, a former MP and a crossbench member of the House of Lords since 1997.

He is noted for his human rights work, his support of pro-life issues and his commitment to his Catholic faith. Archdeacon Robert Miller will speak on Friday, May 15.

Archdeacon Miller is the rector of Christ Church, Infirmary Road.

Over the years St Eugene’s and Christ Church have worked closely together on a number of projects.