Saint Valentine

“Will you be my Valentine?”

To many people, this question is an expression of love that is often said on the February holiday known as Valentine’s Day. Flowers are delivered, chocolate hearts fly off the shelves, and cards are signed, sealed (sometimes with a kiss), and delivered. Even though Valentine’s Day is seen as a time to express love to your significant other, it is also important to acknowledge the history of this romantic holiday and how it came to be.

The origin of this day holds a special meaning for the Christian church, dating all the way back to 278A.D.¹ During this time, the government in Rome prohibited people from getting married because it wanted the men to join the military instead of staying home with their wives.¹ Even though marriage was forbidden, a priest by the name of Valentine continued to marry Christian couples in secret. The Roman government finally discovered what he was doing and executed him for breaking the law on February 14^th. To remember his devotion to love, Valentine’s Day was created in his honor.

A lot can be learned from St. Valentine. He knew what was right and fought for his Christian beliefs in a time when the government was brutal to those who disobeyed them. Similarly, in today’s world it is important to be an advocate for what is right, just like Valentine was. Maintaining Christian values and principles is critical in making this world a better place. Learn from Valentine’s sacrifice, and stand up for what you believe in.

Source: http://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/st-valentine-beheaded

Post from: Insights