Why look for a Valentine?

My husband and I enjoyed sunset on the beach as I took many photos and hoped for the right one to make a virtual Valentine. Later, I reviewed the photos and noticed someone's Heavenly Hand carved out a heart at the perfect time.

Was giving and receiving heart covered cards from loved ones St. Valentine's intent? A number of websites agree there was either one specific Roman Priest who lived in Italy during a time of intense persecution, or several similar priests. The emperor persecuted the church and prohibited marriage during this time.

St. Valentine chose to honor the sacred teachings of the church. He was eventually imprisoned for secretly marrying couples and converting people to Christianity. One popular legend described him being judged by a man of the law who had a blind daughter. St. Valentine prayed with this daughter and she was healed. He was eventually executed around 269 AD. Before his execution, he sent a note to the daughter and signed it, "from your Valentine."

February 14 is the day we remember his martyrdom, and for hundreds of years his sacrificial love is remembered as we share Valentines.