Call the Midwife's Sister Veronica Quits Order in Emotional BBC Drama Exit
In a heartfelt and dramatic turn of events, the beloved BBC One period drama Call the Midwife has bid farewell to one of its most cherished characters. Sister Veronica, portrayed by actress Rebecca Gethings, made the emotional decision to temporarily step down from her roles as a nun and midwife during Sunday's episode, leaving fans stunned and moved by her powerful departure.
An Emotional Confession and a Heartbreaking Decision
The fifteenth series of the long-running drama, set in 1971, opened with an immediate twist as Sister Veronica revealed a deep personal conflict. During a poignant conversation with Geoffrey Franklin, played by Christopher Harper, the nun confessed her profound longing to have a child of her own, despite her religious vows and calling. This internal struggle was further amplified by her special bond with baby Christopher, the son of Shelagh and Doctor Turner, whom she had been helping to care for.
The storyline took a heartbreaking turn when it was revealed that young Christopher, who is battling cancer, needed a break from his chemotherapy treatment. The decision was made for him to return to Hong Kong to receive care at the British Army Hospital, away from his home in Poplar. Sister Veronica, devastated by the news, was asked by Shelagh Turner to escort the baby to Hong Kong, a request she instantly accepted.
A Tearful Farewell and a Life-Altering Announcement
Upon her return from Hong Kong, Sister Veronica demanded a private meeting with Sister Julienne, portrayed by Jenny Agutter, at Nonnatus House. In a deeply emotional and candid conversation, she confirmed her plans to step away from her duties. "I came back to Poplar via the Mother House. I needed to confer with Mother Mildred because I have been feeling increasingly unhappy," Sister Veronica confessed, her voice trembling with emotion.
Sister Julienne responded with a reminder of their vocation, stating, "I wasn't unaware of it but our work is not about our happiness, it is about seeking no reward other than knowing that we do his will." However, Sister Veronica countered with a powerful declaration, referencing Ignatius of Loyola: "If you are quoting Ignatius of Loyola, then you are admitting the bit about giving and not counting the cost. And I can't keep on giving and not counting the cost any longer."
Overcome with emotion, she explained that years of supporting women through childbirth had intensified her own desire for motherhood. "I hoped I could bear it, but I can't," she declared, before making the symbolic gesture of removing her wimple, revealing her hair for the first time on screen. She announced that she had been granted permission to leave for six weeks to contemplate whether to permanently give up her vows and depart the order.
Comfort and an Uncertain Future
Now going by her birth name, Beryl, the former nun was comforted by Shelagh Turner, who herself left the order years earlier to start a family with Doctor Turner. This poignant moment highlighted the parallel journeys of the two women, both grappling with the conflict between religious devotion and personal fulfillment. Beryl then packed her belongings and departed Nonnatus House, leaving viewers to wonder about her future and whether she will ever return to Poplar.
The emotional exit of Sister Veronica marks a significant moment in the series, exploring themes of faith, sacrifice, and personal identity. Call the Midwife continues to captivate audiences with its compelling storytelling and rich character development, airing Sundays at 8pm on BBC One and available for streaming on iPlayer.
