Who Was St. Valentine?
There isn’t just one Valentine—there were actually multiple saints named Valentine in early Christianity, but the most famous legend surrounds a priest in ancient Rome.

According to the story, Emperor Claudius II banned young men from marrying, believing that single soldiers fought better than married ones. But a kind-hearted priest named Valentine secretly performed weddings for couples in love. When his actions were discovered, he was arrested and sentenced to death.

While in prison, it’s said that Valentine fell in love with the jailer’s daughter and wrote her a farewell note signed “From Your Valentine.” Sound familiar? 💌

From Martyr to Love Icon
Valentine was executed on February 14, 269 AD, and centuries later, Pope Gelasius declared this day as St. Valentine’s Day to honor his memory. Over time, his legacy merged with romantic traditions, particularly in the Middle Ages, when poet Geoffrey Chaucer linked Valentine’s Day to the season of love and courtship.

The Evolution of Valentine’s Day
By the 18th century, exchanging love notes and small tokens on February 14 became common practice. In the 19th century, printed Valentine’s cards gained popularity, and today, the celebration has expanded to chocolates, flowers, and even extravagant gestures.

More Than Just Romance
While St. Valentine’s Day is mostly about lovebirds, it has also evolved into a day to celebrate all kinds of love—friendships, self-love, and appreciation for those who make life special. Whether you’re spending it with a partner, friends, or treating yourself, the essence of the day remains the same: love in all its forms. 💖

Now that you know the story, how do you plan to celebrate St. Valentine’s Day this year