Saint Helena of Constantinople

Biography

Saint Helena of Constantinople, also known as Saint Helen or Helena Augusta, was a remarkable woman who played a significant role in the history of Christianity. Born around 248 in Drepanon, Bithynia, Asia Minor, Helena was not initially a Christian. However, she later converted to Christianity, exhibiting a deep religious fervor.

Helena's life took a significant turn when she married Constantius Chlorus, who eventually became co-regent of the Western Roman Empire. Together, they had a son named Constantine, who would later become known as Constantine the Great, a prominent figure in Christian history. Despite Helena's position as co-ruler's consort, her husband chose to set her aside for a politically advantageous second marriage.

Upon the death of her husband, Constantine ascended to the throne and brought his mother back to the imperial court, treating her with great respect and honoring her as a member of royalty. Helena utilized her newfound influence and wealth in the service of her religious dedication, devoting herself to philanthropic works, especially the construction of churches throughout the empire.

In her late 70s, Helena embarked on a remarkable pilgrimage to the Holy Land. It was during this journey, in the year 326, that she led a group of devout Christians to search for the true Cross of Christ. Guided by the suggestions of Saint Macarius of Jerusalem, they unearthed three crosses believed to be the ones used for crucifixion. To determine which cross was the True Cross, Helena had a woman afflicted with an incurable disease touch each one. Miraculously, the woman was instantaneously cured upon touching one particular cross, confirming it as the True Cross.

To commemorate this momentous discovery, Helena ordered the construction of a church at the very site where the Cross was found, now known as the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. As a fervent supporter of Christianity, Helena sent pieces of the True Cross to Rome and Constantinople, solidifying its significance and providing powerful relics for veneration.

Saint Helena is often depicted in art holding a wooden Cross, symbolizing her instrumental role in the discovery of the True Cross. Due to her association with the Cross, she became the patron saint against fire, storms, thunder, and various professions such as archeologists, converts, dyers, divorced people, nail smiths, and needle makers.

After a life of devotion to her faith and numerous acts of charity, Saint Helena passed away around 328 in Nicomedia, from natural causes. She was interred in the Church of Santa Maria di Aracoeli in Rome, Italy.

Though not yet formally canonized by the Church, Saint Helena is widely venerated as a revered figure and a loyal servant of Christianity. Her feast day is celebrated on August 18th in the Western Church and May 21st in the Eastern Church. Her life serves as a testament to the power of faith and the transformative impact of a dedicated Christian life.