by Anthony Parente

On February 14, around 270 A.D. a Roman priest was beheaded for his belief in Christianity. This priest, whose name is Valentine, lived during the reign of Claudius the Goth. It is uncertain as to why Valentine was imprisoned by Emperor Claudius. Some believe it had to due with Valentine secretly marrying couples, which was prohibited by the Emperor. Others suggest it had to due with Valentine saving Christians from persecution. While he was imprisoned Valentine miraculously cured the jailers daughter who was blind. When people heard of this miracle they began to believe in Christianity. Once the Emperor heard of this event he had Valentine beheaded.

It wasn't until the late fifth century that Pope Gelasius declared February 14, St. Valentine's Day. February 14 was one day before the Roman feast of Lupercalia, which is a pagan love festival and it was the day that Valentine was martyred. The Christian Church felt it would be best to replace the Pagan celebration with a Christian celebration and thus Valentine's Day became synonymous with Love.

It is said that prior to his death Valentine sent a letter to the jailers daughter. The letter ended with the words From Your Valentine.