Coming Home from Evensong

This oil picture, inspired by Samuel Palmer's "Coming from Evening Church" (1830), adds a new element of interest to the depiction of a congregation on its way home. What is the relationship between the beardy priest and the affluent-looking young lady. Is he trying to invite her in?
Beautifully framed in a chunky silver frame which gives the work an added gravity.
This 30cm x 40 cm piece is 41cm x 53cm framed and ready to hang.