The Death of the Holy Emperor Constantine

The emperor now passed from his earthly realm to a better kingdom. [a] The emperor’s body was laid in a golden coffin and carried to Constantinople by the governors of the provinces, the military commanders, and the other officers of state. The whole army marched before it and behind it, all of them bitterly mourning their loss, for Constantine had been like a loving father to them all. The body was kept in the palace until his sons arrived, and great honors were paid to it. But there is no need to describe these details here, since other writers have given a full account. Their works are easy to find, and from them one can learn how greatly the Ruler of all honors his faithful servants. If anyone is tempted to unbelief, let him look at what happens now near the tomb and the statue of Constantine. Then he must admit the truth of what God has said in the Scriptures: “Those who honor me I will honor, and those who despise me will be lightly esteemed.” [b]