Millennial Leaves Modernity for Life of Prayer and Service

Emily White, 29, departs North Dakota to join Daughters of the Virgin Mother religious community in North Carolina

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Emily White, a 29-year-old resident of Grand Forks, North Dakota, has decided to leave her life in the modern world behind and enter the Daughters of the Virgin Mother religious community in North Carolina. White had been serving as the music and liturgy director at St. Michael's Church in Grand Forks, and her family and church community hosted farewell celebrations to honor her decision.

Why it matters

White's decision to leave the secular world and join a religious order at a relatively young age is an uncommon choice, especially among millennials who are often characterized as less religious than previous generations. Her story highlights the continued appeal of monastic and contemplative lifestyles for some individuals seeking deeper meaning and purpose.

The details

After giving away most of her belongings, White will depart North Dakota on January 11th to begin her new life in the Daughters of the Virgin Mother religious community in North Carolina. The community is focused on prayer, service, and living a life dedicated to God.

  • White will leave North Dakota for North Carolina on January 11th.
  • White had been serving as the music and liturgy director at St. Michael's Church in Grand Forks prior to her decision.

The players

Emily White

A 29-year-old resident of Grand Forks, North Dakota who has decided to leave her secular life behind and join the Daughters of the Virgin Mother religious community in North Carolina.

St. Michael's Church

The church community in Grand Forks, North Dakota where White had been serving as the music and liturgy director prior to her decision to enter religious life.

Daughters of the Virgin Mother

The religious community in North Carolina that White will be joining, focused on prayer, service, and living a life dedicated to God.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

White's story highlights the continued appeal of monastic and contemplative lifestyles for some individuals seeking deeper meaning and purpose, even in an increasingly secular world.