When I arrived, artist, Nicky Loutit was setting up in the Library, arranging some of her artworks. There was a beautiful, colourful painting on the screen. Women were gathering and were all invited to have a cup of tea.

The afternoon session was to be a “conversation” between Nicky and Sarah Ladbury. Sarah introduced herself by saying that she lived her life as an atheist, but she was intrigued by Nicky’s story and how she had come to be in Aldeburgh and attend church here. As a committed Christian, my ears immediately pricked up because I thought this could be a fascinating “conversation” and wasn’t sure what to expect. And so, Sarah gently asked Nicky about her early life.

Nicky said that from a young age there was no mention of God but when she was sent to boarding school at the age of seven, the hymn “O God our help in ages past…” made a profound impression on her. This was the beginning of her search for something spiritual. Nicky was also aware of angels being ever present in her life and incorporated angels in her paintings. She studied at the Slade School of Art and at Chelsea Art School and eventually settled in Herefordshire with her husband and three boys. They had a smallholding which, although very hard work, was fulfilling and idyllic. They became involved with Methodism whilst there.

Then, one day, a friend appeared at their home wearing orange robes and Nicky and her husband became convinced by him and other friends to give up everything and join an Ashram in India. This was not a happy time for Nicky, she eventually had to leave after five years and came back to Britain with her three boys.

To cut a long story short, Nicky eventually landed in Aldeburgh. One day, at 9am, she found herself in the Parish Church, sitting at the back in tears. A group of people were “gossiping” in the Chapel and one of them encouraged her to join them for Morning Prayer. She did and immediately fell in love with the calmness, order and peace of the service. She has continued to attend Morning Prayer regularly as well as other services.

Sarah conducted the “conversation” in a respectful, empathetic way, encouraging Nicky to talk openly. Members of the audience were able to ask questions and share experiences. Someone asked if Nicky felt “excited” by this journey of faith. Nicky liked that! There was a comfortable feeling of togetherness with shared emotions. I felt that Nicky had been very brave in sharing her story with us. She seemed at peace but excited about what was to come!  (Summary: Fran Smith)