Introduction to the

Modern Matericon Series

    Today’s women are thirsting, as men and women have always been, to satisfy those deep and universal longings of the soul for true righteousness and freedom. In the Orthodox Church, there is a rich history of women who have found the purpose and end of human existence, and have been united with God. It is not only an encouragement but a necessity for women of today to know of these women who have gone before and are now eternally rejoicing in the Heavenly Kingdom.

                        “…Our mortal realm—it falls and shatters;
                        It seems, to us, but to oppress.
                        The heart, inclined to different matters,
                        Now feels a different blessedness.”

—Abbess Thaisia of Leushino Convent, Russia (1840–1915)

    A woman is called to be a living witness to and reminder of the fact that true life is not on earth but in heaven; to be a special bearer and transmitter of the spirit of the next life, of “otherworldiness.” To her is entrusted the responsibility of bringing new souls, new “images of God,” into the world; of instilling the breath of the Kingdom of God into these new souls and fanning the spark of the Spirit of God within them into flame….

    “Your beauty … should be that of the inner life of the heart, the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight.”

—I Peter 3:3–4

    The MODERN MATERICON Series is an inspiration to men as well as women, since the spiritual battle is ultimately the same for both. In Christ there is neither male nor female; strength and valor are needed by each. Those who succeed are universally admired for their beauty and integrity of soul, which is neither masculine nor feminine.

    The MODERN MATERICON Series portrays holy women who have pierced through the veil of the spiritual realm. The key to their lives is ascesis—a willingness to struggle, to engage in battle against evil and against the fallen aspects of human nature. These accounts exude the breath of otherworldliness, the fervency of hope, and the warmth of love for God.

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