Saint Valentine is one of the most well-known saints of the early Church, celebrated on February 14. While details of his life are shrouded in legend, tradition holds that he was a priest and physician in third-century Rome, martyred for his unwavering commitment to the Christian faith. His feast day, now associated with romantic love, originally honored his courageous witness to Christ.
Historical Context and Martyrdom
Who Was Saint Valentine?
There are at least two martyrs named Valentine commemorated on February 14—one a Roman priest and another a bishop of Terni. Many scholars believe these may be the same person.
According to tradition, Saint Valentine lived during the reign of Emperor Claudius II Gothicus (268–270 A.D.), a time of severe persecution against Christians. Claudius, seeking to strengthen his army, forbade young men from marrying, believing that single men made better soldiers. Valentine, a devout priest, defied this decree by secretly performing Christian marriages, affirming the sanctity of the sacrament and the divine institution of marriage.
His Arrest and Miracles
Valentine was eventually discovered and arrested. While in prison, he continued his evangelical mission, reportedly healing the blind daughter of his jailer, Asterius. This miraculous cure led to the conversion of Asterius and his entire household.
Martyrdom and Death
Valentine was ultimately condemned to death. He was beaten, stoned, and beheaded on February 14, around 269 A.D., near the Flaminian Gate in Rome. His relics are said to be kept in various churches, including the Basilica of Saint Valentine in Terni, Italy, and the Church of St. Praxedes in Rome.
Patronage and Legacy
Saint Valentine became venerated as a patron of lovers, engaged couples, and happy marriages. His association with love may have been strengthened by medieval traditions, particularly in England and France, where it was believed that birds began pairing on February 14.
In Traditional Catholic devotion, Saint Valentine is also seen as a defender of holy matrimony, a protector of those seeking true love, and a model of Christian charity.
Lessons from Saint Valentine
- Faithfulness to Christ – Valentine’s refusal to renounce his faith, even under the threat of death, reminds us of the call to stand firm in Christian witness.
- The Sanctity of Marriage – His secret marriages reflect the Church’s teaching that matrimony is a sacred bond instituted by God.
- Charity and Healing – His care for the sick and imprisoned reflects Christ’s love for all, especially the suffering.
Traditional Catholic Devotion to Saint Valentine
- Prayer to Saint Valentine for those seeking a holy spouse or for married couples striving for virtue.
- Veneration of his relics, especially in Terni and Rome.
- Acts of Christian charity, in imitation of his merciful heart.
Prayer to Saint Valentine
O glorious Martyr, Saint Valentine, who remained faithful to Christ even unto death, intercede for us, that we may be strengthened in faith and love. Protect those who seek holy marriage and guide all hearts to the true love found in Christ our Lord. Amen.