Saint Valentine

Saint Valentine was born in Interamna, in Umbria (modern Terni, Italy), though the details of his early life are largely hidden in the mystery that surrounds many early martyrs. In the third century, he served the Church as a clergyman—remembered as a priest of Rome or as bishop of his native city—strengthening persecuted Christians with pastoral care and courageous witness. Ancient tradition holds that, while in Rome, Valentine was imprisoned for proclaiming Christ. Brought before a judge named Asterius, he prayed for the judge’s blind adopted daughter and her sight was restored, leading Asterius and his household to embrace baptism. Valentine continued to preach openly, and was arrested again. Refusing to renounce his faith before the emperor Claudius II, he accepted martyrdom with steadfast love for Christ. He is venerated as a martyr of the Via Flaminia, where he was buried, and his relics have long drawn pilgrims in Rome and beyond. He is also honored as patron of Terni and of several Italian towns. His feast day is February 14.