Why does Valentine’s Day exist?

It exists because of a man named Valentinus, or Valentine.

Valentine was an early Christian Saint, from the period before the Christianization of Rome. He practiced and shared his faith in Rome, at a time when that could still get you executed.

Much is unknown about St. Valentine, but it does appear that he came to the attention of Rome’s Emperor, Claudius II, because he was performing unsanctioned and unapproved marriages. It is from these marriages that he became the Patron Saint of Love.

By some accounts, those marriages were unsanctioned because they were between Christian and Non-Christians. Apparently, marriage exempted men from being required to serve in the Roman Legions (the army) and by some accounts those marriages were also unsanctioned because Emperor Claudius, believed that married men were less inclined to join his wars of conquest.

Regardless, Valentine, through the practice of his faith, caught the ire of the Emperor and in Rome, that meant death.

So, why February 14th?

Well, on approximately February 14, 269, the date is somewhat disputed, St. Valentine was executed for his faith and for his actions.

Over time, Valentine’s Day has come to be associated with cards, flowers, and romance. Its origins, however, tell a quieter and more demanding story — one in which love is not a feeling to be expressed, but a commitment to be lived. Remembering Valentine means remembering that love, at its roots, is something practiced faithfully, even when it is inconvenient or costly.

These are fundamental and basic conversations. If you want to explore deeper questions — like What is the church? or What is prayer? — click the link below.

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