A portrait of St. Helena of Skövde
St. Helena of Skövde
c. 1101 – c. 1160
Feast
July 31 · XII c.
Patron of
Skövde, Sweden · Widows · Victims of slander · Pilgrims
Order
Noblewoman / Martyr
Swedish noblewoman and widow who used her wealth to build the church at Skövde and aid the poor. Falsely accused in the murder of her son-in-law and killed by his relatives c. 1160 while returning from a pilgrimage to the Holy Land. Canonized by Pope Alexander III, making her one of the most venerated saints of medieval Sweden. Feast July 31.
Life & Times
Also known as: Helen of Sweden; Elin · Born: c. 1101 · Died: c. 1160 · From: Västergötland, Sweden.
Patronage
St. Helena of Skövde is invoked as the patron of skövde, sweden, widows, victims of slander, pilgrims. Those in these callings or circumstances often turn to this saint in prayer.
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About Catholic Saints
Catholic saints, including St. Helena of Skövde, 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.