Cristina Scuccia, the Italian who became popular as the "singing nun", has announced her departure from the Ursuline order.
She wants to continue with the music, said the winner of the TV talent show "The Voice Of Italy" from 2014 in a talk show on Italian television.
"Looking back, I look back on my journey with a deep sense of gratitude," said 34-year-old Scuccia.
In recent years, however, she has undergone an inner change.
"I believe that you have to have courage to listen to your heart." The Sicilian native therefore does not intend to give up her faith.
She is grateful for everything she has experienced so far.
Scuccia had inspired in 2014 in the talent show of the Italian state television RAI with her unconventional appearance in religious habit with titles like "Girls just want to have fun" or "What a feeling".
The videos of their performances have been clicked millions of times on YouTube.
Her debut album Sister Cristina was released in November 2014.