December 17: Saint Olympias
She married at age eighteen. She had invited Saint Gregory Nanzianen, who was unable to come. Instead he sent a letter with advice that applies to ALL WIVES; My daughter, may your husband be always first in your heart next to God; share your joys and sorrows together; let his be external business affairs, yours the spinning wheel, wool, and meditation on the divine oracles (that is on holy things and holy books) in the home... May you see your children's children born and grown up to praise the Lord! This did not come to pass, but she became a Saint through the many sufferings of her life.
PRAYER; Saint Olympias, help all wives to live up to this great and holy calling. Amen.
Instruction on the Duties of Wives
Saint Gregory Nanzianzen in a few short words tells us the main duties of a wife, duties which many wives do not do today. Let us reread his advice: My daughter, may your husband be always first in your heart next to God; share your joys and sorrows together; let his be external business affairs, yours the spinning wheel, wool, and meditation on the divine oracles in the home... May you see your children's children born and grown up to praise the Lord!
My daughter, may your husband be always first in your heart next to God; share your joys and sorrows together; When you get married,you immediately come third in your life in importance.
