Who was St. Valentine, and why do we celebrate February 14th?

Saint Valentine was a third-century Roman Saint. His full name, Valentine of Terni. Born 226 A.D. in Terni, Italy. Died February 14, 269 A.D.

St. Valentine was beheaded near Rome by the emperor Claudius II for helping Christian couples wed.

In all throughout history, there were a dozen St. Valentines, and a pope with the same name. The Saint, who celebrates Valentine’s Day, is known officially as St. Valentine of Rome.

According to Wikipedia, “Valentinous” is a Latin word for worthy, strong, or powerful.

Valentine is also the Patron Saint of Beekeepers and Epilepsy. In the afterlife, St. Valentine has a wide range of spiritual responsibilities. He watches over the lives of lovers, beekeepers, those with epilepsy, the plague, fainting and traveling. He is the Patron Saint of engaged couples and happy marriages.

So on Valentine’s Day, with the chocolates and flowers in hand for your sweetie; give a smile and a nod to Saint Valentine, “The Patron Saint of Love”.