Saint Relindis

Biography

Saint Constantly, also known as Saint Constantia, was a remarkable figure in the early Christian history. Born as the daughter of Constantine the Great, one of the most prominent Roman emperors, she lived during the 4th century. Little is known about Saint Constantly's early life, as historical records do not provide detailed information about her upbringing. However, it is known that she was raised under the influence of the Christian faith, as her father played a significant role in the spread and establishment of Christianity in the Roman Empire. Saint Constantly's life took a transformative turn when she fell gravely ill with an unnamed mortal illness. Seeking solace and healing, she visited the tomb of Saint Agnes of Rome, a revered Christian martyr. It was at this holy site that a miraculous healing occurred, as Saint Constantly was miraculously cured of her illness through the intercession of Saint Agnes. The profound experience of healing at Saint Agnes's tomb led Saint Constantly to embrace Christianity fully. Touched by divine grace and imbued with a deep faith, she dedicated the rest of her life to the service of God and the Church. Following her conversion, Saint Constantly chose to reside near the tomb of Saint Agnes, along with a group of like-minded women who shared her devotion to the Christian faith. These women, resembling what we would recognize today as nuns, lived a communal life of prayer, contemplation, and charitable work. Their close proximity to the tomb symbolized their commitment to the constant remembrance and veneration of Saint Agnes. Saint Constantly's unwavering faith and dedication to the Christian community made her a source of inspiration for many, both during her lifetime and after her passing. Her example of selflessness and devotion to God influenced others to seek solace and healing at the tomb of Saint Agnes, and her story spread widely. While the devoted life of Saint Constantly stood as a testament to her commitment to God and the Christian faith, she did not attain significant recognition during her own era. It is worth noting that the process of canonization, formally recognizing a person as a saint, was not as formalized during her time, as it is today. Consequently, she was never formally canonized by any church authority. Saint Constantly's feast day is celebrated on the 28th of January, as a way to honor her memory and continued influence in the lives of many believers. Despite not being officially recognized as a patron saint of any particular cause or group, Saint Constantly's life and devotion continue to provide inspiration to Christians worldwide. In summary, Saint Constantly, the daughter of Constantine the Great, experienced a transformative healing at the tomb of Saint Agnes, which led her to fully embrace Christianity. Choosing to live a life dedicated to God, she resided near Saint Agnes's tomb, living among like-minded women whose devotion mirrored that of today's nuns. Saint Constantly's unwavering faith and dedication continue to inspire believers, even though she was not officially canonized, with her feast day falling on the 28th of January.