St. Helen of Serbia

St. Helen of Serbia, a 13th-century queen and devout Orthodox Christian, was revered for her wisdom, charitable works, and the founding of churches and monasteries throughout Serbia.

St. Helen of Serbia, also known as Helen of Anjou, was born around 1235, likely of French or Hungarian noble lineage, and married King Stefan Uroš I of Serbia. Through this political and spiritual union, she became Queen of Serbia and played a key role in the cultural and religious life of the medieval Serbian kingdom. A devout Orthodox Christian, she maintained a deeply spiritual life even while bearing the responsibilities of the crown.

As queen, Helen was noted for her intelligence, diplomacy, and compassion. She and her husband had two sons who would become kings: Stefan Dragutin and Stefan Milutin. Her influence over them as a mother and as a ruler helped shape one of the most dynamic periods in Serbian history.

Following the death of her husband, she ruled the southern region of Serbia—Zeta (present-day Montenegro and northern Albania)—with great prudence and generosity. She established schools, promoted literacy, and was a great patron of the arts and the Church. Among her most significant contributions was the founding of the Gradac Monastery, which she also chose as her final resting place.

St. Helen was deeply beloved by the people for her tireless charitable works. She founded hospices for the poor, built churches and convents, and supported the monastic communities of her realm. Despite her royal status, she lived with humility and in service to others. Her life was one of quiet leadership, saintly virtue, and deep commitment to faith.

She died peacefully in 1314 and was buried at the Gradac Monastery. The Serbian Orthodox Church quickly recognized her sanctity, and she was venerated as a saint for her life of holiness, wisdom, and benevolence.

Feast Day

12-10-

Birth Date

--1235

Died Date

8-2-1314

Canonised Date

--N/A

Monastery of Gradac, Serbia

O holy St. Helen, wise and just queen, you guided your people in peace and faith. Inspire leaders today with your humility, devotion, and love for the poor. Intercede for us, that we may walk in righteousness and charity. Amen.
ST. HELEN OF SERBIA

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ST. HELEN OF SERBIA

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