A R C H I V E1 9 8 7  
6th
  Manu Guevart & Chantal Notte
Epouses de Dieu
  Belgium 1987
Videotape, 32:45, colour
'Epouses de Dieu' introduces us to two young women who have recently abandoned a worldly existence to spend the rest of their lives in the Carmelite convent at Kain. Speaking from behind a grille, Sister Marie-Therese, still a postulant, and Sister Colette, a novice, explain their motives for entering the convent. Marie-Therese has given up her job as a social worker, her whole social life, her flat and car for the religious life; Colette, an ex-lab technician, has made similar sacrifices. And yet both of them believe that their present way of life has more to offer. The three fundamental principles of the Carmelite way of life are silence, isolation, and being alone with God. Daily life in the convent is of a ritual monotony. The rooms are soberly setsated and meals are simple. This is all portrayed with insight by the video-makers and, because the nuns themselves tell us about it, 'Epouses de Dieu' offers a subtle and thoughtful view of the religious life.

Marie-Adèle Rajandream

Graphic design: Rebecca Lamarque, Production: No Télé