Saint of the Day for 14 February: Saint Valentine
Saint Valentine: History and Traditions of the Patron Saint of Lovers
Name
Saint Valentine
Title
Martyr
Birth
176, Terni
Death
14 February 270, Rome
Recurrence
14 February
Prayer
O glorious Martyr Saint Valentine, You who in times of cruel persecution bore heroic witness to the Christian Faith with blood and life; look pitifully upon us who live in the midst of such a plague of errors and vices that pollute the world, and obtain for us from the Lord the grace to resist victoriously the temptations and seductions of the evil one, to bear witness always with firmness and fervour to the Faith and the law of Jesus Christ, to suffer with patience and fortitude the afflictions and trials of this mortal life to merit the eternal glory of Heaven. Amen
Patron of
Gessopalena, Palmoli, Fano Adriano, Abriola, San Valentino Torio, Manzano, Camino al Tagliamento, Grimacco, Fiumicello Villa Vicentina, Roccantica, Gandino, Breno, Rosasco, Mafalda, Vico del Gargano, Sadali, Bientina, Ala, Brennero, Andriano, Panchià, Predoi, Altavalle, Terni, Penna in Teverina, Bussolengo, Musile di Piave, Occhiobello, Trevignano, Quinto di Treviso, Altivole, Sernaglia della Battaglia, Limana, Monastier di Treviso, Pozzoleone, Castelbaldo, Salara
Protector
of lovers, epileptics
Relics site
Basilica of St Valentine
Roman Martyrology
In Terni, Saint Valentine, Bishop and Martyr, who, after long flagellation put in prison, and, not being able to be overcome, finally in the silence of the middle of the night taken out of prison, was executed by order of Placidus, Prefect of the city.
The Saint and Mission
Saint Valentine embodies a mission that goes beyond the simple figure of a saint: that of uniting people, of celebrating love in all its forms, not only romantic, but also human and spiritual. His life and his sacrifice in Terni symbolise an eternal message, inviting us to look at others with eyes of compassion, to act selflessly and to cultivate authentic bonds. The mission he left behind is a constant invitation to live love as a gift that enriches the lives of those who receive it and those who offer it. Terni, guarding his memory, continues to be a witness to this legacy, which affirms that true love is that which strives every day to make the world better, more united, more human.
The Saint and Mercy
St Valentine, bishop of Terni in the 3rd century, is known as the patron saint of lovers, but his story goes far beyond this association. His life is an example of mercy and love of neighbour, values that led him to be persecuted and eventually martyred. His figure is linked to the concept of universal love, a love that extends to all, without distinction. His work of comforting and supporting the weakest and neediest, his ability to instil courage and hope even in the most difficult moments, testify to a deep humanity and great faith. Saint Valentine invites us to reflect on the importance of cultivating mercy and love in our daily lives, concrete gestures of care for others. His legacy is a reminder not to forget the fundamental values of existence, those that make us truly human. His feast day, 14 February, is an occasion to celebrate love in all its forms, but also to remember the importance of acts of charity and helping others, following the example of St Valentine.
Hagiography
Saint Valentine, a priest of the Roman Church; together with St. Marius and his family, he had dedicated himself to the service of the martyrs imprisoned under Emperor Claudius II. Valentinus was born in Interamna Nahars present-day Terni into a patrician family in 176, was later converted to Christianity and consecrated bishop of Terni in 197, aged just 21. His zeal could not go unnoticed by the pagans. He was sought out and arrested. The soldiers, after beating him up, took him to the prefect’s court…