So, today someone has reminded me of how hard of a job it is to be Matushka (affectionate title in Russian used to refer to priest's wife). Not only do these women run their houses, which is often times filled with children, but they manage things at church. I would imagine that life of a priest can get very hectic very fast. Matushkas are like the oil of this whole operation, making sure things work behind the scene. Often not publicly recognized, their role can stand on its own, but usually is seen in the scheme of things.
The reason why I'm so thankful that these women are here is because of emotional/spiritual support that they provide to the young women of the parish. Sometimes certain things can be very awkward to discuss with the priest, and women's point of view provides a wonderful explanation. The Orthodox Church has many monasteries, where young men are taught the theology, but not many places teach women how to be women of God. This spiritual guidance is carried through Matushkas. Young women, especially in today's society, need to learn the lessons of modesty, patience, and virtue. What other perfect place is there to see such love and beauty than in Matushka's eyes. Even though, sometimes our lives can become a labirynth of mundaine tasks and family to-do lists, I believe that each time we are greeted by Matushkas, God smiles at young women to let them know that things like love and affection still exist in this world!
In Christ,
Darina
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