Every year millions of people around the world celebrate St. Valentine’s Day by giving candy, flowers and special gifts to those they love. But what is the real story behind the saint whose life inspired this holiday?
St. Valentine was a Christian who was persecuted by the Romans in the Third Century. Claudius II ordered the worship of twelve gods by all Romans. Those who chose not to worship the gods were to be put to death. Valentini was a strong believer and the threat of death could not keep him from worshipping his God. He was arrested, imprisoned and martyred for his actions.
While in prison, a guard discovered that Valentini was a man of learning. He asked Valentini to tutor his daughter, Julia, who was blind. Valentini tutored her in Roman history and arithmetic and also taught her about his God. She was a very good student and began to see the world through his eyes. She came to love and trust him as a dear mentor and friend. One day she asked him, “Does God really hear our prayers?” His answer was that God does what is best for us if we will only believe in Him. As they prayed together, she said, “You know what I want, Lord. I pray that I might see.” As they were praying, a bright light filled the cell and Julia screamed, “I can see! I can see!” Her life was forever changed.
On the eve of his death Valentini wrote to Julia urging her to stay close to God. He signed the letter, ‘From your Valentini.’ His death sentence was carried out the next day on February 14th, 269 AD, near a gate that was later named Porta Valentini. He was buried in the yard of the Church of Praxades in Rome.
St. Valentine’s Day is celebrated around the world with messages of love and devotion. Let us remember and honor St. Valentini by loving all those that God has placed in our lives and living out our convictions with boldness.
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