Do You Know the Real St. Valentine?

Today we remember the saintly bishop who gave up his life for the witness to others.  I know most will only think of cupids and lovely hearts, roses and candy; however, I like to remember the man who truly showed love for others.  More important, I like to think that the stories told of Valentine are about the love that only God can show us.

Painted by another mother during Lent of 2015

St. Valentine


Feast day: February 14
Born: ??
Death: 269
Patron of Love, Young People, Happy Marriages
Rome

Although little is known about today's saint, there are many stories that hold to the common thread of true love which can only be given through the grace of God.

One common story about Valentine is that in one point of his life, as the former Bishop, he was on house arrest with Judge Asterius. While discussing religion and faith with the Judge, Valentine pledged the validity of Jesus. The judge immediately put Valentine and his faith to the test.  St. Valentine was presented with the judge's blind daughter and told to restore her sight. If he succeeded, the judge vowed to do anything for Valentine. Placing his hands onto her eyes, Valentine restored the child's vision.  Judge Asterius was humbled and obeyed Valentine's requests. Asterius broke all the idols around his house, fasted for three days and became baptized, along with his family and entire 44 member household. The now faithful judge then freed all of his Christian inmates.

St. Valentine was later martyred during Emperor Claudius' reign. The story tells that Valentine was imprisoned for marrying Christian couples and aiding Christians being persecuted in Rome. Both acts were considered serious crimes.  While imprisoned he continued to correspond to Asterius' daughter about the faith.  A relationship between the saint and emperor began to grow, until Valentine attempted to convince Claudius of Christianity. Claudius became enraged and sentenced Valentine to death, commanding him to renounce his faith or be beaten with clubs and beheaded.  Valentine refused to renounce his faith and was executed in 269.  On the day of his execution, he left a note signed, "Your Valentine." for the blind girl he had cured.

The romantic nature of Valentine's Day may have derived during the Middle Ages, when it was believed that birds paired couples in mid-February.

For our family we traditionally make a wonderful meal that has come to be known as Valentine Linguine.  So delicious and simple but enjoyed by the entire family!  Then we share one way that we love each person at the table.