In Old Testament times, if a woman became widowed and had no children, she could either remain as part of her late husband's family or return to her own family. She could also remarry. A widow had no man to defend her rights in the legal system, or with creditors.
While all of that seems harsh, the Old Testament law was also firm in warning against the mistreatment of widows. The women were to be cared for ... in much the same way as people had responsibility for the care of oprhans. For example, whatever was left after the first harvest could be gleaned by widows.
The New Testament reiterates the widow's need for assistance ... and the responsibility of the people and the early Church to provide that aid. Following Jesus' death and resurrection, the first seven deacons were appointed to care for widows.
Eventually, an order of widows was established in the early Church. To be enrolled in this order, widows had to be at least 60 years old and be known for their good works and hospitality. Their duties included praying day and night, and helping the needy.
- Little Blue Book, Diocese of Saginaw