Life and iconography of St. Helena, the meaning of the image and what it helps with

Helen
(+ c. 327), Queen Equal to the Apostles, mother of the first Christian king, Equal to the Apostles Constantine the Great. Commemoration March 6 - finding of the Holy Cross and nails by Queen Helen in Jerusalem in 326, May 21 - together with Equal to the Apostles. by Tsar Constantine, August 18 (Antioch.-Zap. [1])

Upon the appeal of Emperor Constantine the Great, his mother, Helen, left the “vile and vain idols of deathly service” and did not hesitate to accept Christianity.

In 326, Queen Helena, who was already at a very advanced age, wanting to find both Golgotha ​​and the life-giving Cross on which Our Lord Jesus Christ was crucified, went to Jerusalem. The life of the saint tells us that for a long time the search remained unsuccessful, until one elderly Jew reported that the Cross was under a pagan temple erected on the site of the Savior’s crucifixion. After many days of excavations, three crosses were discovered. To this day, in the Church of the Exaltation of the Life-Giving Cross of the Lord, a place has been preserved, which is still shown to pilgrims today, where Queen Elena stayed day and night and from there, from her little window (now called the Eleninsky little window
), threw gold coins to the workers to inspire them for labor.

But how could one recognize the Holy Cross of the Lord from the three crosses?

A funeral procession was moving along the road at that time.
Patriarch Macarius began to place crosses on the deceased one by one. When the Cross of the Lord touched the dead, he was resurrected. Macarius, wanting to glorify the great joy of finding the Honest and Life-giving Cross of the Lord, began to erect it high above the crowd of gathered people. Queen Helena wished to erect a majestic temple in honor of the Resurrection of Christ on the site of Golgotha, on the site of the Holy Sepulcher, on the site of the discovery of the Life-giving Cross of the Lord. This temple took almost 10 years to build. On September 13, 335, the Church of the Resurrection of Christ was consecrated, and the next day, September 14, the Life-giving Cross of the Lord was solemnly brought into this temple and erected on Calvary. And since then, on this day - September 14/27 - the Orthodox Church annually celebrates the Exaltation of the Life-Giving Cross of the Lord.

And at the head of the first Christian pilgrims is rightfully the holy Equal-to-the-Apostles Queen Helen. She came to cleanse Jerusalem from pagan filth, to thank God for the emperor’s son, and to worship the greatest shrines. Leaving all the decorations characteristic of a royal position, Saint Helena, in simple clothes, so as not to be recognized, mingled with the crowd, distributing generous alms. In Jerusalem, the queen invited local girls to a meal, and she herself served them at the table, like a simple slave. The example of Saint Helena made a strong impression on believers. Believers moved to Jerusalem in a wide stream.

Queen Helena built several churches in the Holy Land: on Calvary the Church of the Resurrection (and the Holy Sepulcher), where the Holy Fire descends annually on Easter night; on the Mount of Olives (where the Lord ascended to Heaven); in Bethlehem (where the Lord was born according to the flesh) and in Hebron at the Oak of Mamre (where God appeared to Abraham).

Perhaps on her orders, in 327, on the island of Cyprus, where she stopped on the way from the Holy Land, the Cat Monastery was founded, to which a thousand cats were specially sent to fight poisonous snakes. At the same time, in Cyprus, in the Monastery of the Precious and Life-Giving Cross (Μονή του Τιμίου και Ζωοποιού Σταυρού, near the modern village of Omodos), Helen left particles of the Cross and the Sacred Rope with which the Romans tied the Savior.

At a very old age (in 327, according to other sources - in 328 or 326) she died in the arms of her son. Her burial was performed with great pomp. Constantine ordered the mother’s body to be transferred to Rome, where it was laid in a grave decorated with porphyry at the church, which is now called the Church of Saints Peter and Marcellinus and is located on the way from Rome to Naples, where a cemetery named after Helen still exists. Two years later, the relics of Saint Helena were transferred to Constantinople [2] and placed in the Constantinople Church of the Twelve Apostles.

Now the relics of the saint rest in the Parisian Catholic Church of Saint-Leu-Saint-Gilles (Rue Saint-Denis, 92), where in 1997 the Orthodox first performed a prayer service in front of them. The fact that the relics of St. Helena are located here has become a widely known fact thanks to the efforts of Archpriest Nikolai Nikishin, who served in Paris for many years [3]. The 1997 prayer service was the first Orthodox service before the holy relics of Queen Helena in the last nine centuries. Historical research based on ancient sources confirmed the authenticity of the relics. The actual discovery of the relics of Equal-to-the-Apostles Helen, glorified by numerous miracles in the Middle Ages in Ovilliers, provides a new basis for the veneration of the saint both in Paris itself, where there are two Orthodox churches of Equal-to-the-Apostles Constantine and Helen, and throughout the Orthodox world.

The venerable head of the saint is located in Trier, in the crypt of the Catholic Cathedral of St. Peter [4], and another part of the relics is in Bonn, in the Catholic Cathedral of St. Martin of Tours.

Saint Helena icon meaning prayer

Only a small part of Christian ascetics are awarded the title of Equal-to-the-Apostles.

As a rule, we are talking about those saints who appeared on earth after the life of Christ himself in the body, that is, they could not be appointed as apostles by the Savior himself.

Nevertheless, the feat of these people was incredibly significant for the church, so they were awarded the title of equal to the apostles, that is, equal to the apostles themselves.

The icon of Helena, Queen of Constantinople, considered here, also belongs to these saints. It was under her that Christianity ceased to be persecuted and became an allowed religion on the territory of the Roman Empire.

The saint comes from Bethany, a relatively small city in Asia Minor, where Roman rule extended. Thanks to this, the girl at a young age managed to fall in love with a Roman warrior (named Constantius Chlorus) and give birth to his son, Constantine.

Over time, the husband was offered the important post of ruler of the Roman lands, but for this he needed to leave his current marriage and become engaged to the emperor’s daughter. Constantius agreed and eventually became the ruler of the Western Territories of the Roman Empire. This title was inherited by his son Konstantin, who also became a warrior.

As a result, Constantine comes into confrontation with the ruler of the Eastern lands, Maximilian, and becomes the ruler of the entire empire. It was by his decree that Christianity was legalized.

On the icon, Queen Helen is often depicted with the found Cross, which remained in the ground for more than three hundred years. It is thanks to this merit that the queen is largely revered.

Finding the Cross

Elena and Constantine did many good deeds for Christianity, so the icon of these rulers is a symbol of selfless devotion to the faith. They used their position only to spread the faith and do things pleasing to the Lord.

Being in old age, the queen went to Jerusalem, which by that time (fourth century) remained under the rule of the pagans. Where the Savior was crucified, there was a temple of a pagan goddess. The queen ordered the demolition of the temple and the same three crosses were discovered under it.

The new temple was consecrated by Bishop Macarius, who, seeing the cross of the Lord, ordered it to be placed on the deceased, the procession with whom was passing nearby. Those present saw the miracle of the resurrection.

The meaning of this icon is very high; it symbolizes perseverance and faith.

Princess Olga took her name in baptism.

On the icon, Saint Helena is most often depicted with a large or small cross. The background is Jerusalem, or a plain background is used. Also a common option are the stamps that frame the icon of Helen and Constantine.

Where this image helps is mostly in various material matters or when it is necessary to pray for rulers or fulfill some political needs. However, believers can turn to these images to fulfill any other needs.

Let us also note other ascetics with identical names, in particular:

Elena of Serbia - the icon is dedicated to the mother of two Orthodox rulers: St. Stephen and Dragutin, she led pious activities and helped many people, built shelters, churches and much more. Elena Diveevskaya - the icon depicts an Orthodox saint, whom Seraphim of Sarov himself blessed to become a monk, this girl at a young age experienced a vision and rejected secular entertainment, becoming completely pleasing to the Lord, her relics remain incorruptible and still work various miracles and help believers.

Helen's name day according to the church calendar: the martyr Helen and Elpidia are venerated on January 28. However, veneration of these martyrs is not widespread. They are among the numerous ascetics whose memory has been lost through the centuries.

Complete collection and description: Saint Helena icon, the meaning of prayer for the spiritual life of a believer.

Queen Equal to the Apostles Helen of Constantinople is the mother of Tsar Constantine. The first merit of Queen Helena was that she endeared her son Constantine to the Christian faith, and through this gradually the entire Roman world became Christian.

The second merit of Queen Helena is the erection of the Holy Cross and the construction of now famous and iconic churches in the Holy Land.

Saint Helena is the patroness of the church clergy, temple builders, philanthropists and missionaries. They pray to her for the gift and strengthening of faith in children and relatives, for the gift of parental zeal for raising children in the faith, for the admonition of non-believers and sectarians. She is prayerfully commemorated together with her Equal-to-the-Apostles son Constantine.

Equal to the Apostles Tsar Constantine and Queen Helen of Constantinople. Icon

Having seen the image of Thy Cross in Heaven and, like Paul, the title is not received from man, Thy apostle has become a king, O Lord, put the reigning city in Thy hand, which you always save in the world through the prayers of the Mother of God, who alone loves mankind.

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Constantine today with the Mother Helena the Cross is revealed, an all-honorable tree, a shame for all Jews, and a weapon against faithful people: for for our sake a great sign has appeared and a terrible sign in battle.

About the wonderful and all-praised king, the holy Equal-to-the-Apostles Constantine and Helen! To you, as a warm intercessor, we offer our unworthy prayers, for you have great boldness towards the Lord. Ask Him for peace for the Church and prosperity for the whole world.

Wisdom for the ruler, care for the flock for the shepherd, humility for the flock, desired repose for the elder, strength for the husband, beauty for the wife, purity for the virgin, obedience for the child, Christian education for the baby, healing for the sick, reconciliation for the offended, patience for the offended, fear of God for the offended.

To those who come to this temple and pray in it, a holy blessing and everything useful for each request, let us praise and sing the Benefactor of all God in the Trinity of the glorified Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

About Saints Equal-to-the-Apostles Constantine and Helen! Deliver this parish and our temple from every slander of the enemy and do not abandon us, the weak (names), through your intercession, beg the goodness of Christ our God to grant us peace of mind, abstinence from destructive passions and all filth, and unfeigned piety.

Ask us, pleasers of God, from above for the spirit of meekness and humility, the spirit of patience and repentance, so that we may live the rest of our life in faith and contrition of heart, and so at the hour of our death we will gratefully praise the Lord who glorified you, the Father Without Beginning, His Only Begotten Son and the Consubstantial All-Blessed One. Spirit, the Indivisible Trinity, forever and ever. Amen.

In the great host of holy saints of God, only a few were canonized as saints equal to the apostles.

Only special services to the church, which placed them on the same level as the apostles, allowed them to receive this honor. One of those whose earthly service was so highly praised was Saint Helena.

For many centuries, the icon with her image was one of the most revered Orthodox shrines.

Who is she, Holy Equal-to-the-Apostles Queen Helen, whose icon is found in most Russian churches and attracts crowds of believers? To answer this question, let us open the life of the holy servant of God, compiled a short time after her blessed death, and the few works of ancient historians that have reached us, describing her glorious deeds.

Around 250, in the Asia Minor city of Bethany, the owner of a local inn had a daughter who helped him serve visitors. This was the future Saint Helen.

The icon of this queen equal to the apostles presents us today with the image of a majestic woman, directing her inner gaze to the heavenly world, and in those days she was still a simple girl who did not think about the great mission ahead of her.

And, as happened at all times, one day she fell in love.

Her chosen one, the young Roman warrior Constantius Chlorus, reciprocated, and soon their union was sealed with marriage. The couple named their firstborn Konstantin.

This child - the fruit of their first love - was also subsequently canonized among the Equal-to-the-Apostles, like his mother, Saint Helen.

An icon with their image is always taken out from the church altar on the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, celebrated on September 27.

Their serene family life came to an end when the reigning Emperor Diocletian in those years, having appointed Chlorus as ruler of vast colonies, demanded that he dissolve his marriage and marry his stepdaughter Theodora. Chlorus could not give up his brilliant career for the sake of the woman he loved, and their union fell apart.

However, evil is punished not only in novels and plays. Very soon the traitor regretted what he had done, since his young wife, together with her numerous relatives, turned his family life into such a nightmare that he had to fight them off with the help of his personal guard.

Meanwhile, Elena, abandoned by her husband, settled in the city of Drepanum. The choice was not accidental - her son, who had already matured by that time, lived and studied martial arts there. It so happened, and this clearly shows the Providence of God, that there was a large community of Christians in the city. Followers of the true faith professed it in secret, since in those years it was still prohibited.

We invite you to read: Ringing in the head and prayer on the website: prayer-to-god.rf

Attending their meetings and listening to preachers, Elena eventually comprehended the depth of the teaching that was new to her and was baptized by a local elder. From that time on, she began a long path of spiritual growth, the result of which was the mission, the fulfillment of which allowed her to shine in the ranks of the saints equal to the apostles.

Empress Helena

Years passed, and Constantius Chlorus, Helen’s ex-husband, died. At the end of his life, he was the ruler of the Western lands of the Roman Empire, appointed to this post by Diocletian, who once elevated him at the cost of family happiness.

After the death of his father, Helen's son Constantine took his place, posing serious competition to the emperor Maximian who ruled in those years.

Finding the Cross

Elena and Constantine did many good deeds for Christianity, so the icon of these rulers is a symbol of selfless devotion to the faith. They used their position only to spread the faith and do things pleasing to the Lord.

Being in old age, the queen went to Jerusalem, which by that time (fourth century) remained under the rule of the pagans. Where the Savior was crucified, there was a temple of a pagan goddess. The queen ordered the demolition of the temple and the same three crosses were discovered under it.

The new temple was consecrated by Bishop Macarius, who, seeing the cross of the Lord, ordered it to be placed on the deceased, the procession with whom was passing nearby. Those present saw the miracle of the resurrection.

What does it help with?

Few people know what the icon of St. Helena helps with. They ask her for help:

sick in soul and body; those who find it difficult to make a choice; people who need to support their faith; for the salvation of your soul.

The face, like all Orthodox icons, has miraculous powers. After all, it depicts people who, through their deeds, have earned the title of Equal-to-the-Apostles. And looking at them, we must take an example, not only spiritually, but also in everyday life. Elena was a woman who gave her whole life for her favorite business. So why didn’t it occur to any of us? Why, looking at icons and praying to them, we expect a miracle from the Lord. After all, we ourselves can create, albeit a small, but still a miracle. Looking at the faces of the saints, we must take their example, because that is what they were created for.

It often happened that the icons of St. Helen Equal to the Apostles began to stream myrrh. This myrrh was used for medicinal purposes. They said that it could heal any disease. Therefore, having heard that somewhere the icon of St. Helena has begun to sharpen the world, Christians from all over the planet come to collect the healing substance. Thus, we can say that the face saved more than one hundred lives.

Monastery in Varna, Bulgaria

Among foreign countries, Bulgaria surpassed all of them in the number of churches in honor of Helen and Constantine. It has 8 active churches and one world-famous monastery in honor of Constantine and Helena in Varna.

Rubens. Vision to Emperor Constantine

It is famous for its healing spring, which is located right under the throne. There is a chapel on the territory of the monastery where you can take a bottle of holy water for free. There is only one monk living in the monastery, but services are held daily. And not far from it there is a resort complex named after the monastery.

Description of the holy image

Lifetime images of the queen have survived to this day, this is her sculpture, as well as a profile image on coins. Of course, in these images Elena is somewhat idealized, but in general her external features are most likely conveyed accurately. The veneration of the saint began immediately after her death and several centuries later, the first icon of St. Helena appeared. Over time, a certain tradition developed on how to depict the saint on icons.

It is not so often among ancient icons that the image of Helen alone is found; as a rule, she is together with her son, who stands on the left side of her, and between them is the Cross of the Lord. This is a classic image of the queen. Icon of Saints Equal-to-the-Apostles Constantine and Helen. Icon with hagiographical marks, small miniatures, where there are sketches of the main events in the life of the saint: a vision, journey to Jerusalem, finding the Cross of the Lord. Icon of Equal-to-the-Apostles Helen, where she is alone without her son, often represents the queen with a dish on which lie four nails that she found during excavations.

It is characteristic that in all iconographic images, St. Elena appears as a young, pretty woman. Despite the fact that she had already come to faith at an old age and died when she was already over 80 years old. And this is not accidental, because through this the icon painters tried to emphasize the spiritual youth of St. Elena.

Iconography

After Helen was proclaimed queen, her images began to be minted on coins. The first portraits of Helen of Constantinople that were discovered date back to the beginning of the 4th century. In iconography, she began to be depicted as a Christian saint from the end of the 9th century.

In Byzantine art, a saint rarely appears alone in icons. Most often, her son, Equal-to-the-Apostles Constantine the Great, is depicted with her. On the other hand, in Western European art the single image of Helen is more common. The iconography of the saint is connected with the history of the discovery of the Life-Giving Cross. Therefore, on both paired and single icons, Helen is depicted with the Cross.

Usually the saint appears in imperial robes with a crown or crown on her head. It is noteworthy that in the icon Elena looks like a young girl. But it is known for certain that she was already 80 years old when she made her fateful trip to Jerusalem. In this way, icon painters show the spiritual youth of the saint.

The value of the icon of St. Helena is very high. She is a symbol of faith, determination and perseverance for Christians around the world.

The history of Helen Equal to the Apostles and the appearance of the icon

The saint comes from Bethany, a relatively small city in Asia Minor, where Roman rule extended. Thanks to this, the girl at a young age managed to fall in love with a Roman warrior (named Constantius Chlorus) and give birth to his son, Constantine.

Over time, the husband was offered the important post of ruler of the Roman lands, but for this he needed to leave his current marriage and become engaged to the emperor’s daughter. Constantius agreed and eventually became the ruler of the Western Territories of the Roman Empire. This title was inherited by his son Konstantin, who also became a warrior.

As a result, Constantine comes into confrontation with the ruler of the Eastern lands, Maximilian, and becomes the ruler of the entire empire. It was by his decree that Christianity was legalized.

Later, he turns to his own mother so that she becomes the empress. This is why the icon of St. Helena and the icon of St. Constantine are often combined. They are also revered on the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross.

On the icon, Queen Helen is often depicted with the found Cross, which remained in the ground for more than three hundred years. It is thanks to this merit that the queen is largely revered.

Famous temples

Temples have been erected all over the world in honor of the Equal-to-the-Apostles mother and son. In Russia, St. Petersburg and the Leningrad region are especially famous for them. – more than 10 churches and one women’s monastery of Constantine-Eleninsky in the Vyborg district, Leninskoye village.

There are 2 cathedrals in honor of saints in Kazakhstan: the Cathedral of Equal-to-the-Apostles Constantine and Helena in Astana and the Cathedral of Constantine and Helena in Kostanay.

In the Vladimir region. several churches in honor of Roman saints and the St. Alexievsky Constantine-Eleninsky Monastery.

Many churches were built in the Kurgan, Sverdlovsk, Rostov, Moscow, Yaroslavl regions, in the Stavropol Territory, Republic. Udmurtia.

Life

The birthplace of the future empress was the port city of Drepan, located in the Roman province of Bithynia. Fate did not gift the girl with a noble origin - her father was the owner of an inn. Elena grew up in Drepan, working in her father's hotel.

Her fate changed thanks to chance. One day a famous Roman military leader passed by the hotel. He noticed a pretty girl working there. Her beauty and nobility of soul made an indelible impression on the military leader. He decided to take Elena as his wife. The military leader turned out to be Constantius Chlorus, the future Emperor of Rome. Elena agreed to marry him.

From that time on, she found herself drawn into the turbulent political life of the Roman Empire. Despite the turbulent times, Elena lived a happily married life and gave birth to a son, who was named Konstantin. Some time after the birth of her son, circumstances forced Elena to leave the royal palace.

Emperor Diocletian divided the empire into four parts, inviting Constantius to rule one of them. To strengthen family ties with the Roman nobility, Constantius married a representative of the royal family - Theodora, the stepdaughter of Emperor Maximin, who retired from governing the empire. Elena found herself removed from the court for fifteen years.

Constantius Chlorus died in 306. Constantine, the son of Helen, was proclaimed the new emperor. Constantine brought his mother back from exile. Once again at court, Elena acquired great favor among the Roman people.

Konstantin deeply respected Elena as a mother and as a virtuous woman. Helen was awarded such honors that she was called Augusta and Basilisa - titles of Roman emperors. The image of Helen was minted on gold coins. Konstantin trusted his mother to manage the treasury at her own request.

Where was Elena the Beautiful born?

In addition to the official, boring version of the appearance of a wonderful girl, there are 3 more options set out in legends. The assumptions are different, they only agree on the place of birth - Elena is a native of Sparta.

1. Euripides claimed that she was the third daughter of Leda, who became pregnant by Zeus. This explains the amazing beauty of the girl.
2. Ptolemy also did not deny divine participation in the conception, but this time Helen the Beautiful’s mother Leda fell under the spell of Helios.
3. The most interesting story says that Helen of Troy is the daughter of Zeus and Nemesis, and the Thunderer seduced the goddess while in the form of a swan. The result of love was an egg, which Hermes placed on Leda's lap. The Queen of Sparta could not refuse such a gift and recognized her daughter as her own.

Icon of Helen Equal to the Apostles

The mother of the Roman Emperor Constantine, Helen, like himself, can be called the most outstanding personalities in the history of Orthodoxy of all centuries who were canonized as equal to the apostles.

They have long been depicted on icons as people who contributed to the strengthening of Christianity. Elena helped faithful Christians return their relics and shrines, and helped in the construction of temples and churches. But most of all, she became famous for her righteous deeds in the name of Christ. And the main one is the Exaltation of the Holy Cross.

Name days according to the church calendar

The Orthodox church calendar mentions 8 holy wives bearing the name Helen. Their name days are celebrated throughout the year on the following dates:

• Elena Chernova - February 5, November 17;
• Helen of Constantinople - March 19, April 19, June 3;
• Elena Korobova - June 7;
• Elena, daughter of Alpheus - June 8;
• Elena Diveevskaya - June 10 and 27, September 10;
• Elena Astashkina - August 10;
• Elena Devochkina - September 3;
• Elena Serbskaya - November 12.

Venerable Elena of Serbia

Icon of the Holy Queen Helen Equal to the Apostles

Saint Helena has long been revered by Orthodox Christians in Russia and Israel. Prayers in front of the icon of Queen Helena can help you cleanse your soul and change your life.

Saint Helena lived in Rome at the end of the third century. The woman was the mother of the Roman Emperor Constantine and during her life she accomplished many great deeds pleasing to God. It was Saint Helena who founded the Church of the Holy Sepulcher and carried out excavations at the site of His execution.

For her deeds, Saint Helena was equated with the apostles and canonized immediately after her death. The icon of the queen was painted at the beginning of the 4th century. Currently her whereabouts are unknown.

Description of the icon

In the icon, Queen Helen is depicted with her head covered with a white scarf. In one hand the saint holds an Orthodox cross, and presses the other to her heart. This image symbolizes the purity of thoughts necessary for every Christian, and also indicates that only through love for the Lord, your neighbors and the whole world can you save your soul and enter the Kingdom of Heaven.

There are many known cases where prayer in front of the image of St. Helena helped people change their fate and achieve their goals. They pray to the Queen Equal to the Apostles:

about gaining material well-being; about help in a new endeavor; about career advancement; about obtaining a high social position.

“Most Serene Elena, who has found the Cross of the Lord, who has created veneration and remembrance of the deeds of God, I pray to you: do not abandon my call, hear my prayer and turn your face to me. Oh, most bright and pious Elena, strengthen my faith and show me the way to recognition and wealth, so that I may glorify our Lord Jesus Christ in both deeds and words. Amen".

This prayer can help you gain stability and wealth.

“Most Holy Queen Helena, who entered the Kingdom of Heaven with the purity of her soul, sanctify my path with your unquenchable light, protect my soul from the machinations of the devil and help me find true faith in our Lord Jesus Christ. Saint Helena, bless my deeds and allow me to do my deeds for the glory of God. Amen".

This prayer must be read before any important task.

What does the icon look like?

In addition to the authentic image of St. Helena, there is a very common icon in which the saint is depicted together with her son Constantine.

This icon depicts saints holding the Cross of the Lord and talks about the contribution of mother and son to the development and spread of the Christian faith.

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The image of Queen Helena reminds people how to do their job to which you are called. The saint has become a model for Orthodox Christians in how righteous deeds in the name of the Lord and people become a calling, how one person can, through his loyalty to God and perseverance in the search for shrines, find his own path and show it to all people. Saint patronizes

Starting new things (necessarily honest, not related to lies); Raising children - after all, Queen Helen herself raised a saint; Success in work and study; Community service; Political affairs; Educational projects and missionary work.

Let us remind you that when you turn to Saint Helena, you also turn to the Almighty Power of the Lord - the Sign of the Cross. Today, particles of the Life-Giving Cross are found in many churches around the world. Perhaps in your city there is a piece of the Life-giving Cross of the Lord, and you can venerate this great shrine.

Prayers calling on the power of God, which comes from the Cross of the Lord, are read by Orthodox Christians morning and evening - thus, the Church blesses us to protect ourselves every day and every night with the power of the Cross of the Lord.

Turn to the Lord and Saint Helen in prayer, protect yourself with the sign of the cross and sincere faith in God - and you will see how your life will change.

“O marvelous and praised by all royal saints and equal-to-the-apostles Constantine and Helen! To you, warm prayer books for us, we offer our sinful prayers, because you have the opportunity to speak with God face to face.

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Faith given by the Lord, knowledge of His help must increase among people. Therefore, unlike conspiracies that are spread by servants of dark forces and which must be “read in secret,” you can and should share your faith, talk about God’s miraculous help and mercy. Good deeds that are done with the invocation of God's grace will always be accomplished successfully.

Through the prayers of all saints and the power of His Cross, may the Lord protect you!

The icon of St. Helena is a personalized icon of women named Helena, Alena. Memorial Day established by the Orthodox Church is June 3.

The icon of the Holy Queen Helen, Equal to the Apostles, is known for its miraculous healings. In front of the icon of Equal-to-the-Apostles Queen Helena and her son, Equal-to-the-Apostles Tsar Constantine the Great, who are often depicted together, leaders at various levels pray for good luck in business and politics.

This image was created by icon painter Olga Zenina. You can order a handwritten icon at the “Honorable List” icon painting workshop.

For her work in spreading Christianity, Elena was canonized as Equal-to-the-Apostles - an honor that was awarded to only 5 other women in Christian history (Mary Magdalene, First Martyr Thekla, Martyr Apphia, Princess Olga and Georgian enlightener Nina).

Elena's year of birth is unknown. Place of birth - the small village of Drepan in Bithynia (near Constantinople in Asia Minor).

One of the merits of Queen Helena was attracting her son Constantine to the faith. Others of his age despised Christianity and were brought up in a pagan spirit. Another merit is the erection of the Cross of the Lord.

As a result, three crosses and a tablet with the inscription “Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews” were found. In order to find out on which cross the Savior was crucified, they began to place the deceased on it one by one.

No miracle occurred from the first two crosses, but in the case of the third, the deceased was resurrected. After this there was no doubt left.

When people were told about this event, they wanted to see this Cross.

On the day of this event, the “Exaltation of the Cross of the Lord” is now celebrated. This is one of the 12 great holidays. On this day, the cross is brought to the middle of the temple so that believers can worship it.

Queen Helena was involved in the construction of several temples in the Holy Land. One of them, perhaps the most famous, is on Calvary - the Church of the Resurrection of the Lord, where the Holy Fire descends on Easter night. Another such temple is the temple on the Mount of Olives, as well as in Bethlehem and Hebron at the Oak of Mamre.

Saint Helen died at about 80 years of age in 327 in the arms of her son and grandson Constantius. After her death, the body of Saint Helena was transferred by her son Constantine to Rome.

Size: 9 x 10 cm, 13 x 16 cm, 17 x 21 cm, 21 x 25 cm, 22 x 28 cm, 27 x 31 cm, 30 x 40 cm

The icon is created by an experienced icon painter with the blessing of a priest. Corresponds to the Orthodox canons of icon painting. Free delivery in Moscow (within the Moscow Ring Road). Possibility to choose a case for an icon.

Holy Equal to the Apostles Queen Helen of Constantinople. Handwritten icon on a linden board with oak dowels, coated gesso with pavilion, tempera, gold leaf (on the halo). Production - icon painting workshop at the temple. The icon complies with the canons of icon painting.

Saint Helen of Constantinople, Queen Equal to the Apostles, is deeply revered by believers in all Orthodox countries without exception. The icon of the Holy Queen is found in almost all Christian churches and monastic monasteries.

Before the spiritual image on this icon, it is appropriate to pray for the healing of ailments, both physical and spiritual, because for a long time, the relics of St. Helena Equal to the Apostles have been known for many miraculous healings of the infirm.

Queen Helen, Equal to the Apostles, is revered by young and old, primarily for her services to the Church of Christ, since it was she who discovered the places where the Savior walked in the last days of his earthly life, and looked for items of utensils and clothing that belonged to Jesus Christ. But the most important merit of Saint Helena is the acquisition of the Cross of the Lord, on which the Savior ended his earthly life.

The pious queen organized geological work on the site where the pagan temple of Venus stood, which was demolished, and three crosses were discovered under it. All that remained was to determine on which cross the Savior was tortured. To do this, the Holy Queen decided to place a weak woman on each of the crosses.

Akathist

Kontakion 1

The election of the Eternal King, Saints Equal-to-the-Apostles Constantine and Helen, for the worldwide exaltation of the Life-giving and Savior Cross of the Lord, by which the salvation of the human race was accomplished, redeemed by the blood of the Lamb of God nailed on it, and all the righteous and sinners cry out to you in gratitude:

Rejoice, holy Equal-to-the-Apostles Constantine and Elena, who have found the Cross of the Lord, a saving weapon.

Ikos 1

The council of angels on earth saw a great miracle - how the Holy Tree was found, preserved for many years in the depths of the earth as soulless stone, now lifted up by the hands of the bishops, but people who saw this fell prostrate to the ground, crying tearfully: “Lord, have mercy! Lord have mercy! Lord have mercy!" I humbly magnify you, Saints Equal-to-the-Apostles Constantine and Elena:

Rejoice, blessed mother, who dearly loved Christ; Rejoice, divinely crowned son, servant of the Heavenly King.

Rejoice, earthly Angels and heavenly people; Rejoice, builder of the mysteries of God.

Rejoice, for heaven and earth have been spiritually rejoiced by you; Rejoice, for you have become famous from all earthly beings.

Rejoice, worthy bearers of the name of Christ; Rejoice, two great lights in the universe.

Rejoice, holy Equal-to-the-Apostles Constantine and Elena, who have found the Cross of the Lord, a saving weapon.

Kontakion 2

Having seen the glorious Constantine during the battle with Maxentius at noon, the Cross in the sky, shining with light, and the letters “By this, conquer,” he commanded to bind all weapons and battle helmets, so that, having completely defeated the enemy with the help of the Cross, they would sing the victorious song to the crucified Christ: Alleluia.

Ikos 2

Your mind, not yet enlightened by holy baptism, to Tsar Constantine, enlighten the Lord in a dream at night, teaching you to defeat the enemy with the sign of the cross, but we, marveling at such Providence of God for you, cry out:

Rejoice, illuminated by the double vision of the Cross from above; Rejoice, exalted one above all the kings of the earth.

Rejoice, chosen from above for apostolic service; Rejoice, conqueror of enemies visible and invisible.

Rejoice, greatly glorifying the Cross of the Lord; Rejoice, you who have given all your strength to the Church of Christ.

Rejoice, thou who has put to shame the enemy of human salvation; Rejoice, having crushed his head with the honorable Cross.

Rejoice, holy Equal-to-the-Apostles Constantine and Elena, who have found the Cross of the Lord, a saving weapon.

Kontakion 3

“By the power of the Cross in battle,” you told the godly wise Constantine, “I saved this city from enemies, and my heart was wounded by the love of the crucified Christ, Whom I honor, Whom I worship and do not forbid those who love Him from singing the blessed song: Alleluia.”

Ikos 3

Having in his heart a feeling of living Christian faith, the great Constantine commanded that idols be crushed and temples be built where hosts of Angels and faces of the righteous pray to their Creator. We, who are unworthy, asking for the peace of the world and a good answer at the Last Judgment of Christ, call to you:

Rejoice, you who are the first kings among Christians; Rejoice, adorned with mercy and power.

Rejoice, clothed in love and righteousness; Rejoice, being delivered from the enemy’s charms.

Rejoice, guardian of church statutes; Rejoice, lover of virginity and chastity.

Rejoice, you who have abolished pagan temples on earth; Rejoice, having established the day of celebration of Sunday.

Rejoice, holy Equal-to-the-Apostles Constantine and Elena, who have found the Cross of the Lord, a saving weapon.

Kontakion 4

The stormy streams of Christian blood have come to an end by your command, Saint Constantine; those who are in prisons become weak, those hiding in caves and mountains return back, and the children of the Church meet each other with the kiss of the saints in an embrace, singing a song of praise to God: Alleluia.

Ikos 4

Having heard your commandment, the martyrs and sufferers of Christ, blessed Constantine, freely confess the faith of Christ, rejoicing and singing to you with tears of joy:

Rejoice, decoration of great Rome; Rejoice, liberation of the prisoners of Christ.

Rejoice, abolition of the pagan world; Rejoice, destruction of idols and idols.

Rejoice, confirmation of rights and laws; Rejoice, magical spells and fortune telling are a punitive prohibition.

Rejoice, you care for the Church, like a child-loving mother; Rejoice, forbidding those condemned to crucifixion.

Rejoice, holy Equal-to-the-Apostles Constantine and Elena, who have found the Cross of the Lord, a saving weapon.

Kontakion 5

Having seen the Resurrection of Christ, people sang: behold the Cross, through which came joy to the whole world. Unknown to the world, the weapon with which the new David conquered death was hidden from the worship of faithful people, the Angels only guarded the honorable Cross, silently chanting: Alleluia.

Ikos 5

Seeing the eighty-year-old old woman, God-wise mother Elena, your heart, most wonderful to Tsar Constantine, filled with desire for the glorification of the Holy Tree, she herself accepts the work with diligence, so that she will open the treasure for worship with all her tongue, with love calling you like this:

Rejoice, holy Equal-to-the-Apostles Constantine and Helen, kings of wisdom; Rejoice, holy duo, beloved by God.

Rejoice, flaming with love for Him like the Seraphim; Rejoice, you who served with zeal like the Apostles.

Rejoice in your zeal as wives who have come from the world; Rejoice, glorified by all earthly beings for your exploits.

Rejoice, for the Angels rejoice with you in heaven; Rejoice, for men will always praise you on earth.

Rejoice, holy Equal-to-the-Apostles Constantine and Elena, who have found the Cross of the Lord, a saving weapon.

Kontakion 6

The preacher of the mystery where the blessed Tree was was a certain Judas, who did not want to indicate this place, for this sake he was exhausted by hunger in the depths of the treasure at the command of the holy Queen Helen, to whom the Holy Spirit was revealed, so that he would use every effort to seek the Cross of the Lord for the joy of Orthodox Christians singing to God: Alleluia.

Ikos 6

A ray of Divine light shone into the hearts of Judas, who had hitherto been adamant to the petitions and admonitions of the God-wise Queen Helen, who opened his mouth and said: “Near Golgotha, in the temple of Venus, you will find the Cross of your Christ.” From there she began to search, having endured much labor, but not having found the treasure, she was extremely exhausted. When you sensed a great fragrance from the bowels of the earth, increased your labors and gained three crosses, then the faithful people glorified you with tears:

Rejoice, zealous seekers of the blessed Tree; Rejoice, continuation of the apostolic deeds without laziness.

Rejoice, you who have revealed the triumph of the Orthodox faith; Rejoice, people who honor the Cross of the Lord, you have greatly rejoiced.

Rejoice, you who have sanctified the air with a life-giving sign; Rejoice, having found the Cross and left an eternal memory for people.

Rejoice, having brought endless joy to the whole world.

Rejoice, holy Equal-to-the-Apostles Constantine and Elena, who have found the Cross of the Lord, a saving weapon.

Kontakion 7

Although they carefully took away the Cross, on which the Holy Sacrifice was offered, so that they would not give the honor of the Cross to another, the blessed Patriarch Macarius commanded to lay crosses on the sick and dead, but these came to life and were well, then the people, having seen the miracle, fell prostrate to the ground, to the Life-giving Cross, to the conqueror of death and hell, singing: Alleluia.

Ikos 7

A new Christian temple is being built by the wise Queen Helen on Golgotha ​​for the worldwide exaltation of the Life-giving Cross of the Lord, and countless people pray to the blessed Patriarch Macarius that they may be worthy to see the Lord’s Cross. He, filled with humility, raised the Cross high with the consecrated cathedral, so that everyone could see; Seeing this, the tribes and nations shouted with reverence and joy:

Rejoice, Blessed Tree, by whom the primordial two were saved; Rejoice, Honest Tree, release hell from the prisoners.

Rejoice, Honest Tree, guarded by Archangels and Angels; Rejoice, Honest Tree, foreseen by the prophets of God.

Rejoice, Honest Tree, joy of the venerable and righteous; Rejoice, Honest Tree, hope and salvation for repentant sinners.

Rejoice, holy Equal-to-the-Apostles Constantine and Elena, who have found the Cross of the Lord, a saving weapon.

Kontakion 8

To the one who wanders on our lands for the sake of salvation, Who had no place to bow his head, erecting temples of the Divine Wisdom of Constantine and Helen, born in Bethlehem, on Golgotha, where they were crucified, on the Mount of Olives, from there he ascended to the Beginning Father, and at the oak of Mamre, where Abraham Invite Him strangely, and all the faithful continually sing the Seraphim’s song: Alleluia.

Ikos 8

All your service will be to the glory of the Sweetest Lord and His Most Pure Mother, Intercessor of the world. What tongue will utter the labors you have raised? What mind will comprehend joy when you find the desired Cross of the Lord? For this reason, all earthly creatures gratefully cry out to you:

Rejoice, having lived with angelic purity; Rejoice, having loved the Lord with all your heart.

Rejoice, having labored with apostolic zeal; Rejoice, having been adorned with Christian humility.

Rejoice, having accumulated all virtues within yourself; Rejoice, you who have inherited the bliss of heaven.

Rejoice, for you always see the Creator and Lord; Rejoice, for your reward is abundant in heaven.

Rejoice, holy Equal-to-the-Apostles Constantine and Elena, who have found the Cross of the Lord, a saving weapon.

Kontakion 9

Having rejected all heretical teachings, the godly fathers and teachers, gathered by your command, King Constantine, at the first Ecumenical Council, drove away Arius and his accomplices, and like thunder we roared to the end of the song: Alleluia.

Ikos 9

The oracles of sweet speech, the God-bearing fathers, the saints and teachers at the council of Niceistem, Nicholas of Myra, Spyridon of Trimifunt, Paphnutius of Thebaid, Paul of Neocaesarea, Athanasius of Alexandria and other confessors of Christ, who, having become wise from above, set forth the Creed there and legitimized the entire Church to sing the Trinity of the Consubstantial, bringing a hymn of thanksgiving to the Supreme Lord of all God and to one’s fellow servant, crying out:

Rejoice, worthy son of your mother, the God-wise Helen; Rejoice, imitating her in humility beyond words.

Hail, king, surpassing the wisdom of Solomon; Rejoice, thou who has acquired the faith of the forefather Abraham.

Rejoice, high architect of laws and power; Rejoice, new Apostle of the great city of Constantinople.

Rejoice, merciful and meek ruler; Rejoice, wise chairman of the first Council of Nicaea.

Rejoice, holy Equal-to-the-Apostles Constantine and Elena, who have found the Cross of the Lord, a saving weapon.

Kontakion 10

You did not forbid those who wanted to be saved in the struggle of virginity, O great Constantine, so that with a pure heart they offer prayers to the One God for the peace of the whole world and, the renunciation of the rumors of everyday life, as the Angels sing: Alleluia.

Ikos 10

The Most Pure Virgin Herself, the Lady of heaven and earth, will be your wall, cover and protection in everything. You gave her your new city on the banks of the Bosphorus, and all people, strengthened by Her merciful intercession, remembering your faith and deeds, O praiseworthy Constantine, cry out with compunction:

Rejoice, you who consecrated the new capital of Byzantium; Rejoice, having entrusted the intercession and protection of the Mother of God.

Rejoice, you who created the temple of God in Her name; Rejoice, you who glorified fervent prayers in it.

Rejoice, as an intelligent servant who multiplied his talents; Rejoice, having surrendered your will to the will of God.

Rejoice, decoration of the temples of saints; Rejoice, admonition of the shepherds of the Church of Christ.

Rejoice, holy Equal-to-the-Apostles Constantine and Elena, who have found the Cross of the Lord, a saving weapon.

Kontakion 11

Singing and fervent prayers now offered in your church, the Holy Equal-to-the-Apostles Kings Constantine and Helen, we ask with tears: lift up your blessed hands, in the image of which you have received the Holy Cross, and pray to the Lord crucified on it, so that in repentance we continually call to Him: Alleluia.

Ikos 11

Your death is bright and joyful, holy Equal-to-the-Apostles Konstantin and Elena, for you are holding the victorious sign in your arms, showing by this, that each one may take up his cross and, humbly walking the path of his earthly journey, be honored to receive a painless death and the Divine Mysteries of communion, crying out with tears to you:

Rejoice, as you sing the Trisagion hymn to Him with the Angels; Rejoice, for you stand before Him with the council of the Apostles.

Rejoice, for together with all the saints you see the village of paradise; Rejoice, merciful caretaker of the poor and wretched.

Rejoice, quick liberators from bonds and captivity; Rejoice, those who do not honor the holiday with strict punishments.

Rejoice, for all those who honor your memory have interceded before the Lord.

Rejoice, holy Equal-to-the-Apostles Constantine and Elena, who have found the Cross of the Lord, a saving weapon.

Kontakion 12

Ask for the grace of peace and silence for those who come to your intercession, saints of God, save our fatherland from the enemies coming against us and internecine warfare, so that we may receive God’s mercy through your prayers, crying out with all the saints to the Lord Christ: Alleluia.

Ikos 12

Singing and praising you, holy Equal-to-the-Apostles Kings Constantine and Helen, we celebrate your holy memory and ask: do not forget us, sinners, who honor your works and exploits, and we all call to you with faith and love:

Rejoice, protector of this city and temple; Rejoice, teacher of the Church of Godly Wisdom, shepherd.

Rejoice, bright lamps in the darkness for those who have gone astray; Rejoice, prayer books are warm for our fatherland before God.

Rejoice, for you heal the sick, the blind and the deaf; Rejoice, for you are delivering us from unexpected death.

Rejoice, you frighten heretics and blasphemers of the faith with the fear of God’s justice; Rejoice, you ask forgiveness from the Throne of God for sinners who repent.

Rejoice, holy Equal-to-the-Apostles Constantine and Elena, who have found the Cross of the Lord, a saving weapon.

Kontakion 13

O wise two, great kings Constantine and Helen, accept this small prayer of ours and the praise brought to you! Deliver those who honor your holy memory from sinful passions and eternal condemnation, so that through your intercession we may, until the end of our days, venerate the Life-giving Tree of the Cross of the Lord and there, where the eternal light shines, sing in the glory of the Cross: Alleluia.

This kontakion is read three times, then the 1st ikos, “The Council of Angels...” and the 1st kontakion, “The election of the eternal King...”.

Icon of the Holy Queen

The saint has a crown on her head - this reminds us that she was once the queen of Rome. In her right hand she holds a cross, as a sign that even after death she supports Christianity and does not allow it to sink into oblivion. Also, many researchers believe that in this way the author of the face wanted to resemble archaeological excavations. Which Elena spent in the last years of her life. Let us recall that then they managed to discover the tomb of Jesus Christ, the cross, and his mantle.

Do you have a telegram? If yes, then you will like our Orthodox group: t.me/molitvaikona, come in, we are waiting for you!

Until today it is unknown whether those finds are genuine. But some parts of them are still preserved in churches throughout Europe. Thanks to her actions, she made many believe in God, and turned people to the path of truth, the path of eternal life.

Also read: Icon of Jesus and the 12 Apostles

The meaning of this face is that every person who prays will turn to it. He will not only find answers to his questions, but also strengthen his faith. Thanks to such qualities, the icon of the saint is revered in every home.

What should I give this woman?

Typical Elena is a practical girl/woman who respects quality things. Therefore, giving her outright tinsel, that is, a bright, but cheap thing that will break tomorrow, is not the best idea.

Choose for her:

• something necessary that she is currently dreaming of (it’s not a big deal if it’s even a saucepan, but it’s exactly the volume and made of the material that is most relevant for her kitchen);
• a certificate to a good store for bed linen, expensive dishes, equipment (and the richer the choice there is, the more delighted the birthday girl will be);
• jewelry with a stone selected according to the zodiac sign of this woman (tell the store Elena’s date of birth, and the sellers will unmistakably select such a talisman - by the way, not only a large pendant, but also earrings or a ring will act as an amulet);
• catchy, but not capricious houseplant (Saintpaulia, pelargonium, azalea).

Don't hesitate to ask. But remember: sometimes women are embarrassed to ask for something expensive directly, preferring to gently hint.

So if Elena, as if by chance, starts talking about a tea set she saw in a store, asks you to evaluate a sample of a new French fragrance, or turns on an advertisement for sneakers, but does not say “buy”, do not hesitate - this is the very feminine hint that needs to be caught "between the lines".

History of the icon

Equal to the Apostles are saints who have committed acts of spreading the faith comparable to those done by Christ’s direct disciples—the apostles. In the history of Christianity, there are several women who deserve veneration in this rank, among them St. Elena.

Icon of Saint Helen of the Apostles

What do we know about her life?

The saint was born in III in the city of Drepana, now a small town of Hersek in Turkey. She was the daughter of a caretaker of a horse station and knew well what the life of a common man was. In 270, Elena met the ruler of the Western part of the Roman Empire, Constantius Chlorus, and became his wife . It was in this marriage that Constantine the Great was born, who later became the first Christian emperor. Constantine, having become emperor, elevated his mother, whom he greatly respected, to the dignity of Augusta (queen), making her actually his co-ruler. Interesting fact! Saint Helena came to faith at the age of 60 under the influence of her son. And she made her famous pilgrimage to Jerusalem at the age of 80.

Elena undertook a trip to Jerusalem after a vision in a dream in which she was commanded to find the greatest Christian shrines on Calvary. After excavations, the Cross of the Lord, nails and a tablet with the inscription: “Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews” were found. In addition, the burial cave of Jesus Christ was discovered.

Brief biography

The life of Equal-to-the-Apostles Queen Helen was full of trials. She has come a long way from a girl of simple origin to an equal-to-the-apostles queen. Thanks to her, Christianity ceased to be a prohibited religion on the territory of the Great Roman Empire. Her mission on earth was truly great.

Origin

The future empress of the Great Roman Empire was born in the small Greek village of Drepan in the territory of modern Turkey, located near the Hersek lagoon. Subsequently, Helen's son, the Great Emperor Constantine, renamed this city Elenopolis, in honor of his mother. He moved the capital of the empire to the city of Constantinople, building it in the likeness of Rome, but making it Christian.

Elena's origins remain a mystery. According to some sources, she was the daughter of the owner of the inn, according to others, she was a maid or waitress in a tavern. One thing is certain - the future Queen of Constantinople was not of noble birth. At a young age, she met the Roman officer Constantius Chlorus. In this marriage, in 274, a boy was born, who was named Constantine. Elena was not a Christian at that time, but she knew about Christian teachings and raised her son in accordance with them. Over time, Constantius achieved notable political heights and divorced Helena to marry the emperor's stepdaughter. He took his son with him. At that time, Konstantin was 18 years old.

After this event, nothing is known about the fate of the woman until the proclamation of Constantine as Emperor of the Great Roman Empire. This event marked the rise of Christianity. He declared his mother empress and allowed Christianity to be freely practiced. Elena herself was well over 60 when she officially accepted the true faith and became the spiritual support of the empire.

Life and deeds

The status of queen gave Helen the opportunity to do a lot for the development of Christianity. Her most important achievement was the acquisition of the Life-giving Cross of the Lord. Tradition says that during his military campaigns, a sign of God appeared in the sky to Constantine. It was a cross with the inscription “By this victory.” After the victory, Constantine’s main desire was to obtain the True Cross. Queen Helen herself volunteered to fulfill this mission. She went to Jerusalem when she was already 80 years old. Elena was filled with faith to find the Life-Giving Tree on which the Savior was crucified.

Jerusalem at that time was destroyed and a typical pagan city was built in its place.

All holy places were trampled upon. First of all, the Queen ordered to demolish all the temples and statues of idols. There was little hope, but she prayed and God answered her prayers. In 326, during excavations on Mount Golgotha, the Holy Sepulcher was found and next to it a cross, title and four nails with which Jesus was crucified.

In memory of the deeds of the Lord on earth, Elena founded several churches. One of them is the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, in which Helen left the Life-Giving Cross. She took only a small part of it with her as a gift to her son.

At the expense of the queen, temples were built in the most significant places for Christianity:

1. In Bethlehem, on the Mount of Olives, at the place of the Ascension of the Lord.
2. In Gevsemane, at the site of the Dormition of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
3. Temple on Mount Sinai.

Elena lived in Jerusalem for two years and all this time behaved like an ordinary pilgrim. She wore a simple dress, gave alms and served food at dinners for the poor, which she organized herself.

Death and canonization

Saint Helen, Equal to the Apostles, lived to a very old age. The exact date of the queen's death is unknown. Traditionally it is believed to be 327 or 328. Her body was transported first to Rome, and two years later to Constantinople, to the Church of the Twelve Apostles.

Over time, parts of the relics were distributed to different churches in Europe. One part was sent to the Roman Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The other part was stolen by the monk Tejis. He sent them to the Monastery of St. Peter in France, where the relics were known throughout Europe for their miraculous powers. They stayed there until the French Revolution.

Currently, the holy relics are located in Paris, in the ancient church of Saint-Le-Saint-Gilles.

The queen's holy head is in Trier. This city in Germany was once one of the four capitals of the Empire. It was here, after her trip to Jerusalem, that she brought some of the acquired relics. Smaller parts of the relics are also found in many other temples and monasteries.

What does the icon of St. Helena help with?

The meaning of this icon is very high; it symbolizes perseverance and faith.

The queen became one of the first women to become saints.

Princess Olga took her name in baptism.

On the icon, Saint Helena is most often depicted with a large or small cross. The background is Jerusalem, or a plain background is used. Also a common option are the stamps that frame the icon of Helen and Constantine.

Where this image helps is mostly in various material matters or when it is necessary to pray for rulers or fulfill some political needs. However, believers can turn to these images to fulfill any other needs.

What can you ask for before the image?

The face of Saint Helena has incredible miraculous power. Most often, it is Elena who is approached with prayers for health for themselves and their loved ones, as well as for improving their financial situation. If the icon depicts Elena with her son, the Great Emperor Constantine, then people related to politics or seeking support in their business endeavors turn to her. However, this does not mean at all that one cannot turn to the saint with other requests. The main thing is that the prayer comes from the heart, and the intentions of the person asking are pure.

Material aid

In her worldly life, the queen generously helped people, organized dinners and gave alms. Nowadays, people who find themselves in a difficult financial situation often turn to Saint Helena. You need to ask to attract money to the house. But it is worth remembering that only a justified request will be heard.

Before starting a new business

When starting a new business, it is better to ask for blessings from the image of a saint. This must be done in front of the image of Elena. If you don’t have an icon at hand, you can turn to the image of the saint mentally. It is important to feel a connection with her. You can speak in the words of a prayer, or in your own words. The main thing is that the plan is good.

Helps with career advancement

Work is an integral part of human life. To achieve certain heights in one’s business, to accelerate one’s career advancement – ​​these are the requests that are often made to the saint. Elena can bestow self-confidence and faith in achieving what you want.

Success in politics

A special feature of the icon of the Equal-to-the-Apostles Saints Helen and Constantine is that politicians often turn to it.

It can give hope to candidates ahead of the election, even if the odds in the political race are not very good.

Protecting your reputation

People turn to the image of Equal-to-the-Apostles Helen for protection from slander and unfair slander. It is believed that the saint will help protect the reputation of the person asking.

Prayer to Saint Helen Equal to the Apostles

They pray to Saint Helena Equal to the Apostles when they need to make the right decision. They also ask Elena for help in gaining and strengthening faith, well-being in the family and at work, and in curing illnesses. The prayer can be said at home, near an icon or in a temple.

It is preferable to pray in a church in which there is an icon of St. Helena, or a particle of her relics. In the Christian tradition there is no clear formula for turning to Saint Helena. However, the text of the prayer can be found in special collections.

Sources:

• https://ikona-i-molitva.info/ikona-svyatoj-eleny-v-chyom-pomogaet/
• https://122plus.ru/molitva-svyatoy-ravnoapostolnoy-tsaritse-elene/
• https://tolkovanie.info/ikona-svyatoj-eleny/
• https://molitva-info.ru/ikony/ikona-svyatoj-eleny.html
• https://omolitvah.ru/ikony/ikona-svyatoy-eleny/
• https://1001molitva.ru/zhitiya-svyatyh/elena-ravnoapostolnaya-konstantinopolskaya.html