Three years after Martina Purdy joined the Adoration Sisters in west Belfast, she will profess her vows along with former barrister, Sr Elaine of the Heart of Jesus Kelly.

Four novices make their first profession, one makes his solemn profession and five new members join the order.

“A very proud moment for our two provinces of Ireland and Great Britain and Vice Province of South Africa and for the Order as a whole – truly a sign of God’s blessings upon us.”

Fr Paul Horan OCarm succeeds Bishop Alexio Churu Muchabaiwa as leader of the diocese of Mutare.

“Sr Clare spent nearly 15 years of her life in consecration to the Lord. She was a generous sister with a special gift for reaching out to children and young people.”

Europe shows biggest decline having lost 9,051 religious women.

August vocations weekend organised after May weekend booked out.