BBC Northern Ireland reporter Martina Purdy has announced that she is leaving journalism to become a nun.
The political journalist confirmed the news by posting a statement to her Twitter account on Friday, saying that she was leaving an "immensely rewarding profession" and wished the best of luck to those whom she had worked with over her 25 year career.
"I know many people will not understand this decision. It is a decision that I have not come to lightly, but it is one that I make with love and great joy. I ask for prayers as I embark on this path with all humility, faith and trust," she said.
"This is a very personal decision. I ask that the media respect my privacy and that of the religious congregation which I am entering as I face up to the new challenges of my life. I will not be making any further public comment about this matter."
Purdy later returned to the social networking site to thank her followers for their support.
