Roman Emperor and Defender of Christianity
Life
Constantine, son of Constantius Chlorus and Saint Helena, became Roman Emperor during a time when Christians were still persecuted. Before the Battle of the Milvian Bridge (312), he reportedly saw a vision of the Cross with the words:
“In hoc signo vinces” — “In this sign you will conquer.”
He ordered the Chi-Rho (☧) symbol placed on his soldiers’ standards and won the battle.
Major Deeds
- Issued the Edict of Milan (313) granting religious freedom to Christians.
- Ended large-scale persecution of the Church.
- Convened the Council of Nicaea (325) to combat the Arian heresy.
- Built great churches including:
- Old St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome
- Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem.
Conversion and Death
Constantine supported Christianity throughout his reign and received baptism near the end of his life in 337.
Veneration
- Eastern Churches: honor him as Saint Constantine, Equal to the Apostles.
- Feast day: May 21 (with Saint Helena).
2. Saint Constantine of Scotland (Constantine II / Constantine III?)
Sometimes identified with a Scottish king who abdicated and became a monk.
Life
- King of the Picts or Scots (9th–10th century).
- After ruling for many years, he renounced the throne.
- Entered the monastery of St. Andrews to live in penance and prayer.
Spiritual Significance
His life reflects a classical theme in medieval hagiography:
a king abandoning earthly power for Christ.
Death
He died as a monk around 943, remembered locally as a holy penitent king.