Party and Wedding Planning

Every February, across the country, candy, flowers, and gifts are exchanged between loved ones, all in the name of St. Valentine. But who is this mysterious saint and why do we celebrate this holiday? The history of Valentine’s Day — and its patron saint — is shrouded in mystery. But we do know that February has long been a month of romance. St. Valentine’s Day, as we know it today, contains vestiges of both Christian and ancient Roman tradition. So, who was Saint Valentine and how did he become associated with this ancient rite? Today, the Catholic Church recognizes at least three different saints named Valentine or Valentinus, all of whom were martyred.

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The most popular religious holidays in the Christian calendar are Christmas, which is preceded by the Advent season, and Easter, called by the Greek word “Pascha” (Πάσχα) among some Eastern Christians, which follows Lent (Great Lent in the Eastern tradition) and Holy Week. While Christmas is very popular, especially in Western countries, Easter is liturgically by far the most important celebration. (more…)