St. Valentine’s Day

LAUREN GOODWIN ‘23

Every year on February 14th, people rush out to buy bouquets of red roses, heart-shaped chocolate boxes, and thoughtful cards for their loved ones. Valentine’s Day is a beloved holiday by millions around the world. Someone may have asked you to be their “Valentine,” but what does that mean? And where did Valentine’s Day come from in the first place?

The holiday originated in ancient Rome during the reign of Claudius II Gothicus. Historians have speculated that Saint Valentine might actually refer simultaneously to two different men. However, there has not been a clear consensus due to inconsistent documentation of these stories. Nonetheless, it is believed that during a house arrest with Judge Asterius, St. Valentine (a former Bishop at the time) was conversing about his faith in Jesus. Asterius decided to test the validity of Valentine’s argument by challenging him to restore sight to his blind daughter. Valentine prayed over the judge’s daughter and voilà! Asterius’ daughter could see!

In another story, Emperor Claudius II outlawed marriage for young men, believing that this would improve soldiers’ performance in battle. St. Valentine, a Roman priest, went against this edict and secretly married couples, hence making his legacy about love.

In both accounts, St. Valentine was ultimately martyred for his faith on February 14th. Some believe that before he was executed, he wrote a letter to Judge Asterius’ daughter and signed it “from your Valentine.” Millions write this same phrase today on Valentine’s Day as they write letters to their loved ones. While we celebrate this holiday with chocolates, flowers, fancy dinners, or staying at home and watching romantic comedies on TV, let’s remember St. Valentine’s story and the great sacrifice he made for his faith.