The saint library

Saint Pulcheria the Empress

Righteous Empress
Constantinople
Feast day: September 10

Pulcheria, 1869 drawing by F. G. Solntsev after a fresco in Kyiv Saint Sophia Cathedral. Image source: Wikimedia Commons · Public domain source details

A life of faith

Pulcheria was the daughter of the Emperor Arcadius and the sister of Theodosius II. Her Orthodox life remembers her work as an adviser and co-regent to her brother, as well as her support for churches and monasteries. She later married Marcian. She gave her wealth to poor people and to the Church. Her commemoration on September 10 recalls an empress whose responsibilities included both public affairs and practical support for Christian communities.

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

A reflection

Pulcheria used her resources to support poor people and places of worship. Consider how the responsibilities you already hold could become a means of practical care.

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.

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