In 270 A.D. Emperor Claudius
issued an edict forbidding marriage because he believed that married men made
poor soldiers, not wanting to leave their families to go to battle. Bishop
Valentine disagreed with the emperor and invited young lovers to come to him in
secret to be married. When Claudius found that he was performing secret
marriage ceremonies, he was incensed. He had Valentine seized and brought
before him. When Valentine refused to change his views and renounce
Christianity, he was put in prison to await execution. In February of 270,
Valentine was clubbed, stoned, and then beheaded.
Tradition tells us that while
Valentine was in prison he corresponded with those under his care by sending
little letters and love notes to those in his parish. He would always close his
letters with the signature, “From your Valentine”.
Happy Valentine’s Day to one and all!
May the LORD bless you and
keep you!
May the LORD let his face
shine upon you,
and be gracious to you!
May the LORD look upon you
kindly and give you peace!
-Numbers
6:24-26
Blog submitted by Bart Tesoriero
