Sunday, August 18, 2013

August 18: Saint Helena


History


Saint Helena was married to a Roman general, and her son was Constantine the Great, who became emperor of Rome in the year 312. Helena became a Christian, and so did Constantine. He gave her the freedom to do many acts of charity and also to go on a pilgrimage to the Holy Land. While she was there, she found part of the True Cross that Jesus died on and brought it back to Rome to inspire other Christians. It can still be seen today at a Vatican museum.

Activity


A pilgrimage is a special opportunity to focus on Jesus. Right now, Catholics all around the world are observing the Year of Faith, and many bishops have identified special pilgrimage sites within their own dioceses. That means that even though you may not be able to go to the Holy Land like Saint Helena did, you can take some time today (Sunday) and go on a pilgrimage within driving distance. Find a site and go together as a family. If there isn’t a site near you, go to the church(es) where your family members were baptized instead.

Saint Helena, pray for us!


More reading for parents:

How to get a plenary indulgence for the Year of Faith (USCCB)
Vatican website for the Year of Faith

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