Helen of Laurino

Saint Helen of Laurino was a hermit of the sixth century, born at Laurino in southern Italy. She is commemorated on 20 April, 22 May, 18 August and 29 June, according to different lists, and is the patron of the town of Laurino.

It is believed that she was born at Laurino. While still a girl she withdrew to a cave eight kilometres from the town, near Pruno, where she struggled for twenty-⁠one years, until her death around 530. The Roman Martyrology describes her as one who withdrew for Christ to a deserted place and served God unceasingly, helping the faithful and the sick.

The saint's body was first taken to Paestum. It was then given to Margaret, a kinswoman of Charles II of Anjou, and after that to Eleazar of Sabran, lord of Ariano, who moved it to the cathedral of Ariano Irpino. At the end of 1622 the relics lay in the main altar of the cathedral, in an urn of black wood.

In 1822 Bishop Trotto of Ariano gave the greater part of the relics to Laurino. On the site of the saint's house the town church was built.

She lived before the separation of the Churches, and so she is venerated as a saint of the undivided Church.