Saint Olga

Saint Olga, also known as Helga in Old Norse and Elenа after her baptism, was a regent of Kievan Rus' from 945 to 957. She ruled during the time when her son Sviatoslav was away or underage. Olga is renowned for subjugating the Drevlians, who had assassinated her husband Igor. Despite not personally converting until after his death, she took the name Elenа upon baptism and became a key figure in Kievan Rus'. It was under her son Vladimir that Christianity was adopted as the state religion of Kievan Rus', but Olga's role in initiating this process cannot be understated. She is honored as 'Equal to the Apostles' in the Eastern Orthodox Church, a title signifying her significant contributions to the spread and practice of Christianity.

Saint Olga died on 11 July 969, and she continues to be venerated for her wisdom, courage, and dedication to spreading Christian faith. Her feast day is celebrated annually on this date.