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Feast Day: February 17
Our Lady of Constantinople, also known as Sainte-Marie-du-Rosaire, is a significant figure in the history of Christianity and the Byzantine Empire. The name refers to a former Jewish synagogue in Constantinople that was converted into a Christian church by Emperor Justin II in the year 566. The synagogue's conversion into a church reflects the significance of the Christian faith in the Byzantine Empire during that era. The act of conversion was a powerful symbol of the growing Christian influence in the region, and it demonstrated the commitment of the Byzantine rulers to promote and protect Christianity. For centuries, the building served as a Christian church, attracting numerous devotees and believers who found solace and inspiration in its holy ambiance. The church's dedication as a center of Christian worship was widely celebrated, further deepening the faith's roots in the Byzantine Empire. However, in 1640, the building was converted into a mosque due to various political and religious circumstances. Despite this transformation, the memory of its original dedication as a church endured throughout the following centuries. This historical event symbolized the challenges and triumphs of Christianity in the region. While there is no specific representation or imagery associated with Our Lady of Constantinople, the devotion to her signifies the enduring spirit of faith and the strength of Christianity in the Byzantine Empire. It is important to note that Our Lady of Constantinople does not have an official feast day or patronage assigned to her in the Catholic Church. As a pre-congregation saint, her role is more tied to historical significance rather than an active intercessor or patron saint. Nevertheless, she is remembered on February 17th each year, reflecting the memory of the church's original dedication and celebrating the role of faith in the Byzantine Empire. Our Lady of Constantinople's story serves as a reminder of the historical and cultural significance of Christianity in the Byzantine Empire. Her life and the dedication of the former synagogue turned church highlight the enduring power of faith in the face of challenges and the ability of Christianity to adapt and persist throughout history.