Saint Olga was born into a pagan family. She was distinguished from an early age for her purity and wisdom. She became the wife of Prince Igor, with whom she had a son. After the murder of her husband, she mourned deeply and sought to restore his honor.
When she decided to embrace Christianity, she traveled to Constantinople. There she was baptised and was given the name Helen. Upon her return to Kiev, she began to preach Christianity, founding the first church dedicated to Saint Nicholas. Despite her efforts, she was unable to persuade her son to follow her faith.
Saint Olga governed with mercy and compassion, showing particular care for the poor. She worked tirelessly for the enlightenment of her people and the spread of Christianity in Rus’, praying unceasingly for the salvation of her nation.
She fell asleep in the Lord on July 11, leaving behind a rich legacy of holiness and faith.
