Who was saint Helen?

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History of St. Helen, Our Patroness

St. Helen, also known as St. Helena or Helen of the Cross, holds a revered place in the history of Christianity. As the mother of Emperor Constantine the Great, her life was instrumental in the transformation of the Roman Empire from a pagan society to one where Christianity flourished. Her unwavering faith, humility, and dedication to the discovery of sacred Christian relics inspire countless faithful to this day.

Early Life and Influence

St. Helen was born around the middle of the third century (ca 250AD), possibly in Drepanum, Asia Minor, in modern-day Turkey, which was later renamed Helenapolis by her son. Her origins were humble. St. Ambrose of Milan in his Oratio de obitu Theodosii, referred to her as a stabularia, or inn-keeper. Helen became the consort of Flavius Constantius Chlorus, a prominent Roman general who later became Emperor. They gave birth to Constantine, who would later be known as Constantine the Great, the first Christian Emperor of Rome. Although Constantius divorced Helen, following his death in 308, Constantine, who succeeded him, summoned his mother to the imperial court. He conferred upon her the title of Augusta, mandated that she be honoured as the mother of the sovereign, and had coins minted bearing her image.

Despite her high station, Helen remained a woman of profound simplicity and compassion. She is remembered for her charity and concern for the marginalized, qualities that marked her life.

Conversion and Devotion to Christ

St. Helen embraced Christianity later in life, likely influenced by Constantine’s faith and devotion to the Catholic Church. Her conversion marked a turning point, not only in her personal life but in the history of the Church. Helen became an ardent supporter of the Christian faith, dedicating her life to prayer, acts of charity, and the promotion of the Gospel.

The Pilgrimage to the Holy Land

In her later years, St. Helen undertook a pilgrimage to the Holy Land, a journey that would solidify her place in Christian history. Guided by her fervent faith, she sought to uncover the sacred sites associated with the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. According to tradition, in 326 AD, St. Helen discovered the True Cross, the very cross on which Jesus was crucified. This monumental event occurred at Calvary, beneath a pagan temple that had been built to obscure the sacred site. Her discovery was confirmed through miraculous healings associated with the relic. To honour the True Cross, Helen and Constantine ordered the construction of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, which remains one of Christianity’s most important pilgrimage sites.

A Legacy of Faith and Service

St. Helen's influence goes beyond her archaeological achievements. Tradition associates her with the construction of Christian churches in key cities of the West, particularly where the imperial court was located, such as Rome and Trier, as well as in the Palestinian regions of Bethlehem, Jerusalem, and the Mount of Olives. This ensured that future generations would have places of worship at these sacred sites. Helen's legacy as a seeker of truth and a preserver of Christian heritage continues to endure.

The Church celebrates St. Helen's feast day on August 18. She is the patron saint of new discoveries, archaeologists, converts to Christianity, people in difficult marriages, imperial cities, nail makers, and cross makers.

Patroness of Our Parish

In religious art, St. Helen is depicted wearing imperial robes and a crown, usually holding the True Cross. Her life exemplifies dedication to faith, perseverance in search of truth, and generous service to others- virtues that continue to inspire our parish community today. As the patroness of our parish, St. Helen reminds us that each of us, no matter our station in life, has a role to play in building God’s kingdom on earth.

Prayer to St. Helen

O holy St. Helen, you were chosen by God to find the sacred cross upon which our Saviour, Jesus Christ, died.
By your unwavering faith and devotion, you brought the light of the True Cross to the Church and the world.

We turn to you, faithful servant of God, seeking your intercession.
Help us to carry our own crosses with patience and courage, and guide us to find strength in the love of Christ.

Pray for us that we may remain steadfast in our faith and bring the light of Christ into the lives of those around us.
Assist us in our trials and inspire us to seek heavenly treasures over the fleeting wealth of this world.

Through your example of devotion and charity, may we grow closer to God and one another, and one day share in the eternal glory of His kingdom.

St. Helen, finder of the True Cross of Christ, pray for us