Get to know Saint Valentine, the Real Valentine’s Day Hero!
Have you ever wondered why and how we commemorate Saint Valentine’s Day? Prepare for an incredible true story about a courageous hero defending love!
Saint Valentine Was Who?
Imagine this: Nearly 2,000 years ago, a good priest named Valentine lived in ancient Rome. He was well-known in the city for his generosity and willingness to assist needy people. Imagine him as a real-life superhero but with priest’s robes instead of a cape!
Valentine’s Courageous Journey
Claudius II, the emperor of Rome at the time, wasn’t particularly kind.
He wanted all young men to become soldiers, so he made it illegal for them to get married. Valentine felt that this was completely unfair.
So what did our hero do? He made the decision to assist others covertly! Valentine performed covert wedding ceremonies for couples in love. Although he knew he could get in trouble, he felt that love was more significant than unjust laws.
The Initial Valentine
Valentine was imprisoned after the emperor discovered what he was doing—not very kind, isn’t it? Valentine, however, remained polite and optimistic while in jail. He became friends with the blind daughter of the jail guard. According to the story, Valentine prayed for her, and suddenly her vision returned!
Valentine wrote her a heartfelt farewell note before he was forced to leave prison on February 14. He signed it, “From your Valentine,” and that’s how Valentine’s Day cards came to be!
Interesting Saint Valentine Facts
Did you know that Saint Valentine loved flowers and gardens and was renowned for helping sick people feel better?
The Reasons We Honor Saint Valentine
Saint Valentine exhibited courage by standing up for what he thought was right, helping others even when it was risky, being kind to everyone, even while incarcerated, and never losing faith in the power of love.
Time for family talk!
The following are some entertaining questions to discuss with your family:
If someone established a rule that you felt wasn’t fair, how would you respond?
How can we treat others with the same compassion that Saint Valentine did?
Why do you think Valentine helped others while knowing that doing so could get him in trouble?
Have Fun!
Try these exercises to help you recall the tale of Saint Valentine:
1. Sketch an illustration of Saint Valentine assisting others.
2. Write family members private, considerate letters (similar to Valentine’s last letter).
3. Draw what you believe Saint Valentine’s superhero logo might look like and make a superhero cape for him.
So remember…
On Valentine’s Day, we like to give cards and chocolates, but the true narrative is about something far more meaningful. Like Saint Valentine, it’s about having courage, standing up for what’s right, and being compassionate to others!
The next time you see Valentine’s Day cards or heart decorations, keep in mind the true hero of the occasion—a courageous priest named Valentine who taught us that love is worth battling for! ❤️
St. Valentines from the Diocese of Lafayette in Indiana
P.S. Parents: This story can spark wonderful discussions with children about bravery, standing up for what’s right, and being good to others despite adversity.
Family Activities 