Saint Helen of Serbia

A life of faith

Helen was the mother of the Serbian rulers Milutin and Dragutin. Her OCA life remembers practical care for people in poverty: she built a shelter for poor people and supported monastic communities. She founded and endowed monasteries, including Rechesk near Spich. Before her death she received monastic tonsure. The sources consulted give differing death dates, so no exact year is stated here. Her remembered provision of shelter and resources provides the basis for the editorial themes of mercy and service.

The Eastern Orthodox Church remembers saints in prayer and commemoration. Their lives offer examples for Christians learning to live their faith.

A reflection

Helen's shelter for poor people makes mercy concrete. What practical resource could your community provide to someone who needs safety or support?

Read the Orthodox source

Feast dates follow the linked source. Local calendars and commemorations may vary. Themes describe a saint’s life; quiz suggestions do not assign a baptismal patron. Discuss choosing a patron saint with your priest.