Every February we celebrate Valentine's Day by giving flowers, candy and cards to those we love. We do this in honor of Saint Valentine. You may be wondering, "Who is St. Valentine"?
There are varying opinions as to the origin of Valentine's Day. Some experts state that it originated from St. Valentine, a Roman who was martyred for refusing to give up Christianity. He died on February 14, 269 A.D. Legend also says that Valentine was a prisoner man who fell in love with his jailer's daughter. He wrote her a letter and signed it "From Your Valentine", words still used on cards today.Other aspects of the story say that Saint Valentine served as a priest at the temple during the reign of Emperor Claudius. Claudius had Valentine jailed for defying him. In 496 A.D. Pope Gelasius set aside February 14 to honour St. Valentine.
Over time, February 14 has become the date for exchanging love messages and a celebration of St. Valentine, the patron saint of lovers.
