Saint Pulcheria

Saint Pulcheria was the daughter of Byzantine Emperor Arcadius and Empress Eudoxia. When her father died, the fifteen-year-old princess became regent of the empire on July 4, 414, governing until her younger brother Theodosius was old enough to assume power. She took special care of her brother's education, ensuring he received a strong religious formation. Pulcheria took a vow of virginity and led a life of deep piety, prayer, and charity. As Augusta, she wielded enormous influence in both political and religious affairs, playing a key role in the Council of Ephesus in 431, which affirmed Mary as Theotokos, the Mother of God. She built numerous churches and hospitals in Constantinople. She is patron against in-law problems, against the death of parents, of empresses, exiles, orphans, and victims of betrayal.