February 14th, the holiday of Love! Every February, across the country, candy, flowers, and gifts are exchanged between loved ones, all in the name of St. Valentine. But who is this mysterious saint, and why do we celebrate this holiday? The history of Valentine's Day and its patron saint is shrouded in mystery. St. Valentine's Day, as we know it today, contains vestiges of both Christian and ancient Roman traditions. The Catholic Church recognizes at least three different saints named Valentine or Valentinus, all of whom were martyred but none of whom were associated with roses or chocolate.
One legend is that Valentine was a priest who had served during the third century in Rome. The Emperor of Rome at the time was Emperor Claudius II. He decided that single men, those without women or children to take care of and support made better soldiers than those who were married with children. Because of the conclusion he came to, Claudius ordered the outlaw of marriage for young men, whom he viewed were his crop of potential soldiers. Valentine realized the injustice of such a decree and defied Claudius’s command by continuing to perform marriages for young lovers even though it was very dangerous for him to do so. When Claudius discovered this, he ordered that Valentine be immediately put to death.
Other legends include suggestions that Valentine was killed while he was trying to help Christians escape harsh Roman prisons where they were possibly being beaten and even tortured at times. What does this have to do with a holiday that is a famous day for lovers? According to this version of the legend, the first Valentine greeting was actually allegedly sent by Valentine himself. When he was in prison, it is believed that Valentine fell in love. The person he fell in love with was a young girl, possibly his captor’s daughter. She was said to have visited him during his confinement while in prison. Before Valentine’s death, it is alleged that he wrote her a love letter. He signed this letter with the expression "From your Valentine". This expression is still used today on Valentine’s Day and is signed at the bottom of cards and Valentine gifts.
Though the real truth behind the Valentine legends is still somewhat of a mystery, what is clear is why Valentine is looked upon as a brave, compassionate, and romantic person. By the Middle Ages, Valentine was, not surprisingly, one of the most popular saints throughout England and France.
Religious Valentine's Day Cards:
 There is no fear in love 1 John 4:18 Greeting Card by inspiredbygenius Check out Marriage Cards online at zazzle |
 The attributes of love 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 (2) Greeting Cards by inspiredbygenius Add your photos and text to blank greeting cards at Zazzle |
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 There is no fear in love 1 John 4:18 (2) Greeting Cards by inspiredbygenius Shop for a different greeting card template online at zazzle |
 Love is a mysterious force Proverbs 30:18-19 (2) Greeting Card by inspiredbygenius Shop for a different greeting card template online at zazzle |
 Love is a mysterious force Proverbs 30:18-19 Greeting Card by inspiredbygenius Check out more Marriage Cards at Zazzle |
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