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Musings of a Maraschino Cherry by Peggy Musgrove

Book Review by Patty Kennedy

Musings of a Maraschino Cherry is a treasure trove of encouragement, inspiration and practical helps, borne of Musgrove’s decades of experience as a pastor’s wife—from their first congregation of only 50 people and a turn-of-the-century parsonage, to her years as director of the national Women’s Ministries Department of the Assemblies of God.

Musgrove is transparent about difficult transitions she faced, beginning early on when she mistakenly thought her husband’s choice to be a pastor did not involve her. She delightfully relates how she found her place—teaching adults. When her husband asked Musgrove to fill in at the last minute teaching a young adult Sunday school class, she wondered, “Has anyone ever died of fright while standing in front of a Sunday school class?” But she found her voice—and her place—as she was caught up in the joy of sharing God’s Word.

The proper role of a pastor’s wife is as varied as the men and women who serve together in ministry. Her role is shaped by her own personality and abilities, as well as her calling in ministry. In addition, her husband’s personality influences her role—some men desire their wives to take an active role in ministry, while others prefer their wives to simply play a supportive role. The important thing is that husband and wife labor side by side, learning to accept each other’s differences and being mutually supportive.

Countless examples illustrate how Musgrove found her strength in God’s Word—when people liked her no matter what, when people’s like or dislike of her was based on what she did and how she did it, and when some disliked her no matter what. She candidly describes the prunings she and her husband experienced, in their personal lives and in ministry.

Musgrove addresses practical issues like managing money, self-discipline, and scheduling your time. She wisely assesses that the greatest contribution a pastor’s wife can make is praying for her husband and the church they serve.

Insightful, probing questions are included at the end of each chapter. Designed for group study or one-on-one mentoring, Musings of a Maraschino Cherry has frequently been the study of choice for district ministers’ wives retreats, along with its companion, Cherries Jubilee Retreat Book. Both are available for ordering from Gospel Publishing House.

PATTY KENNEDY is assistant web content editor for the national Women’s Ministries Department. She also writes book and music reviews for Pages and Tunes, a free e-newsletter provided by the national Women’s Ministries Department.

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