Saint of the day, August 18
The mother of Emperor Constantine embraced Christianity later in life, allowing her faith to shape a legacy of charity, pilgrimage, and devotion to the Cross of Christ.
Aug. 18: St. Helena
Born: mid-third century
Died: c. 329
Nationality: Roman
Vocation / State: Mother and empress
Attributes: Cross and crown
Patronage: Difficult marriages, divorced people, converts, and archaeologists
Canonization: Pre-Congregation
St. Helena’s love for Christ led her to the Holy Land, where her devotion to the places of His earthly life would leave a lasting mark on the Church.
The mother of the Roman Emperor Constantine, Helena embraced Christianity later in life and allowed her newfound faith to shape the influence she had been given. She became known for her generosity to the poor and her support of the Church during a time of profound change for Christians in the Roman Empire.
Her devotion eventually led her on pilgrimage to the Holy Land, where she sought to honor the places connected to the life of Christ. She supported the construction of churches at sacred sites associated with His birth and Passion, and tradition closely connects her pilgrimage to Jerusalem with the discovery of the True Cross.
Helena had also known hardship in her own life. Her marriage ended as her husband rose through the ranks of the Roman Empire, but years later, her son Constantine restored her to a place of honor. Helena used that position not simply for herself, but in service of the faith she had come to embrace.
St. Helena’s life offers a beautiful example of what can happen when faith takes deeper root in the heart. Her love for Christ moved her to care for others, seek the places He had walked, and honor the Cross on which He gave His life. Her example encourages us to seek Him with the same devotion and to use whatever He has placed in our hands for His glory.
St. Helena, pray for us!
