Connie’s gift is as mysterious to her as it is to the reader. Lone, who seems to understand the magic, insists that the power to “step in” is a gift from God, but the Catholic Connie believes that the power is sinful. Which woman is correct, if either of them are, is never made clear. However, Connie continues to “step in” for the sake of Mary Magna, suggesting that her devotion to Mary Magna is ultimately stronger than her devotion to God. Connie’s entire life has centered around helping Mary Magna, and when the elderly nun passes away, Connie loses part of her own identity.