Helena Augusta

Flavia Julia Helena was born around AD 246–248, traditionally in Drepanon of Bithynia in Asia Minor, a humble town later renamed Helenopolis in her honor. Of lowly origins, she became the companion and likely wife of Constantius, and in time gave birth to a son who would change history: Constantine. When Constantius set her aside for political advancement, Helena lived quietly for years, devoted to her child. After Constantine was proclaimed emperor, he restored his mother to public life, bringing her to the imperial court and honoring her with the title Augusta. Through Constantine she embraced the Christian faith, and her influence helped strengthen the Church in an age when it was emerging from persecution. In her later years she made a pilgrimage to the Holy Land, and ancient Christian tradition holds that she discovered the True Cross, a memory that has inspired devotion for centuries. Saint Helena is venerated in both East and West, and is honored as patroness of places including Aldein, Amyntaio, Ano Liosia, Benetutti, Birkirkara, Capitana, Casapesenna, Cergnago, Deskati, and Fyli. Her feast day is August 18.