Equal-to-the-Apostles · c. 272–337
Constantine
Equal-to-the-Apostles Emperor Constantine the Great
New Calendar May 21 Old Calendar June 3
Why they are a saint
Constantine was a First Roman emperor to favor the Church; called the gathering of Nicaea I. Commemorated with his mother Helen. The years given for this life are c. 272–337. His feast remembers missionary labor, not merely a private piety.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Traditionally asked to pray for christian rulers. The reason for this custom is not recorded here.
Prayer
O holy Constantine, pray to God for us.
A short general prayer to a saint, not a liturgical text. No public-domain troparion for this saint is included.
Do not confuse with Constantine Brancoveanu; New Martyr Constantine of Hydra; many prince-Constantines.