A portrait of St. Helena
St. Helena
c. 248 – c. 330
Feast
August 18 · IV c.
Patron of
Archaeologists · Converts · Difficult marriages · Empresses · New discoveries
Order
Empress / Pilgrim
Roman empress (c. 248-c. 330), of humble Bithynian origin, wife of the emperor Constantius Chlorus and mother of Constantine the Great; devout Christian who at about 80 made a pilgrimage to the Holy Land, where she founded basilicas at Bethlehem (Nativity) and on the Mount of Olives, and according to ancient tradition discovered the True Cross. Patron of archaeologists. Pre-Congregation.
Life & Times
Born: c. 248 · Died: c. 330 · From: Bithynia / Rome / Holy Land.
Patronage
St. Helena is invoked as the patron of archaeologists, converts, difficult marriages, empresses, new discoveries. Those in these callings or circumstances often turn to this saint in prayer.
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Devotional items honoring St. Helena, from our Sancta Lumina collection and beyond.
About Catholic Saints
Catholic saints, including St. Helena, are Christians whom the Catholic Church has formally recognized as having lived lifes of heroic holiness and who now dwell with God in heaven, offering an example of faith for those still on their earthly journey. Catholics don't worship saints, but ask them to pray to God with us and for us — much as one might ask a trusted friend to pray for them — trusting that those closest to God can join their voices to ours before Him. Discover more saints in the Catholic Shop Saints section.