For the past two weeks, I have struggled to view the WhatsApp status updates of some of my contacts. My feed has been flooded with business advertisements urging people to buy one Valentine’s package or another for their ‘special man’ or ‘special woman.’ This overwhelming focus on romantic gifting has led me to reflect on the limitations we have imposed on the celebration of Valentine’s Day.

We have, in many ways, reduced Valentine’s Day to a mere celebration of romantic love. However, a deeper look into its history reveals a much broader and more profound meaning of true love—one that transcends romance.

In this week’s publication, we invite you to journey with us on this path of rediscovery, revisiting the true essence of Valentine’s Day, which has long been tethered to the idea of romance.

Brief Historical Origins and the Legacy of Saint Valentine

The roots of Valentine’s Day can be traced back to the early Christian martyr Saint Valentine, a priest in Rome during the reign of Emperor Claudius II. According to tradition, Valentine defied the emperor’s decree that prohibited marriages for young men, believing that single men made better soldiers. He continued to perform secret marriages for couples, demonstrating his commitment to the sanctity of marriage and the importance of love. Ultimately, Valentine was arrested, beaten, and beheaded for his faith and actions, with his martyrdom commemorated on February 14.

The celebration of St. Valentine evolved over the centuries, merging with various cultural traditions. Though historical accounts vary, one prevailing legend suggests that while in prison, Valentine healed the blind daughter of his jailer. Before his execution, he is said to have left her a note signed, “From your Valentine,” a phrase that endures today as an emblem of affectionate devotion. Moreover, by the Middle Ages, the day had become associated with romantic love, particularly in England and France, where it was believed that birds began to pair off on this date. Thus, Valentine’s Day transformed from a solemn feast day honouring a martyr to a celebration of love and affection between couples.

True Essence of Valentine: Love Beyond Romance

While modern Valentine’s Day celebrations often centre on romantic love, the deeper message of Saint Valentine’s life calls us to reflect on love in all its dimensions—divine love, sacrificial love, and love for humanity. In Christian teaching, love is not merely an emotion but a call to action. This action was no doubt exemplified by the Trinity. Thus, Saint Paul, in his first letter to the Corinthians, beautifully describes love as patient, kind, and selfless (1 Corinthians 13:4-7). This is the kind of love that transcends fleeting passion and reflects the divine love of God.

Furthermore, in Catholic teaching, love is central to the faith. The Catechism of the Catholic Church emphasizes that “God is love” (1 John 4:8) and that love is the foundation of all relationships. This understanding of love extends beyond romantic partnerships to encompass friendships, familial bonds, and the love shared within the Christian community.

The sacrament of marriage holds particular significance in Catholic teaching, as it represents the covenantal love between Christ and His Church. Couples are called to embody selfless love, mutual respect, and fidelity, mirroring the love that God has for humanity. The Church teaches that love is not merely an emotion but a choice and a commitment to the good of the other, reflecting the sacrificial love demonstrated by Christ on the cross.

A Catholic Approach to Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day can be a meaningful celebration of love that aligns with Christian values. Rather than focusing solely on commercialism, Catholics can use this day to reflect on the deeper meaning of love in their lives. To honour Saint Valentine’s legacy, we can adopt the following:

1. Strengthening Relationships through Prayer

Couples can take the opportunity to pray together, asking for God’s guidance and grace in their relationship. This practice not only deepens their bond but also invites God into their love story, recognizing that He is the source of all love.

2. Acts of Service and Charity

Engaging in charitable acts together can embody the spirit of love that Valentine’s Day represents. Couples might consider volunteering at a local charity, supporting those in need, or participating in community service projects. This aligns with the Christian call to love one's neighbour and serve the less fortunate.

3. Expressing Appreciation

Valentine’s Day can also serve as a reminder to express gratitude for one another. Couples can take time to reflect on the qualities they admire in each other and share their appreciation through heartfelt notes or gestures. This practice fosters a culture of kindness and gratitude within the relationship.

4. Family Celebrations

Families can celebrate love by expressing appreciation for one another, fostering a culture of kindness and gratitude. Simple acts, such as sharing a meal together or writing notes of affirmation, can strengthen family bonds and create lasting memories.

5. Reflecting on the Sacrament of Marriage

For married couples, Valentine’s Day can be an opportunity to reflect on the sacrament of marriage and renew their commitment to one another. This can be done through a special date, a renewal of vows, or simply by discussing their journey together and the ways they can continue to grow in love.

A Prayer for Love

As we celebrate Valentine’s Day, let us pray:

Heavenly Father,
You are the source of all love, and in Your wisdom, You have called us to love one another as You have loved us. Through the intercession of St. Valentine, help us to live lives of selfless love, rooted in faith and directed toward You. Bless all couples, families, and friendships, and may they reflect the beauty of Your divine love. Teach us to love not only in words but in deeds, following the example of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.         St. Valentine, pray for us!

 

 

.