QUINCY (CBS) – A nun was the victim of a robbery in Quincy Sunday afternoon, and police say the suspect took her rosary beads.

Authorities said a sister at The Daughters Of Mary of Nazareth Convent was walking on Phipps Street by Water Street just after 2 p.m. when a woman approached and tried to grab a small satchel from her hand.

Police say 26-year-old Vanessa Young had the knife and struggled with the nun, while her spouse, 26-year-old Crystal Young acted as a lookout.

The nun noticed the suspect was holding a small knife, and opened the satchel to show her that there was no money inside, just rosary beads, a key and a small memento.

“I guess I’ll take the rosary beads,” the suspect said.

The nun was able to get back to her convent safely. She was wearing civilian clothing at the time of the robbery.

Officers later found two women who matched the nun’s description. They denied they were involved, but police found a small knife on one suspect, as well as a Weymouth resident’s checkbook and six cellphones – three of which were believed to be taken from a break-in on Water Street.

Vanessa Young, 26, of Somerville, is charged with armed robbery, assault with a dangerous weapon (knife) and daytime breaking and entering to commit a felony.

Crystal Young, 26, of Somerville, is charged with armed robbery and accessory after the fact.

They pleaded not guilty in court on Monday.

“I was immediately concerned to make sure that they would get the help and that they will get the resources that they need because my heart goes after them,” said Mother Superior Olga.

The stolen rosary beads have not yet been recovered.