Saint Valentine

Saint Valentine was a 3rd-century Roman saint, commemorated in Western Christianity on February 14. From the High Middle Ages, his feast day has been associated with a tradition of courtly love. He is also a patron saint of Terni, epilepsy, and beekeepers. “Love to be real, it must cost – it must hurt – it must empty us of self."-Mother Teresa

Family Discussion Questions About St. Valentine

Who was St. Valentine, and why do we remember him today?
(Tip: He was a priest in ancient Rome who stood up for love and faith!)
Why do you think St. Valentine secretly married couples even though it was against the law?
(What does that tell us about love and doing the right thing?)
What do you think it means to show love in small, everyday ways—just like St. Valentine did?
(Can you think of something kind someone did for you recently?)
How can we share God’s love with others like St. Valentine did?
(Who in your life could use a little extra kindness this week?)
Why do you think Valentine’s Day includes hearts, flowers, and cards? How do those things help us show love?
(What would be a fun or unique way to celebrate this year?)
St. Valentine was brave for his beliefs—can you think of a time you had to be brave to do the right thing?
(Or is there a moment coming up when you might need courage?)
What do you think God wants us to learn about love from St. Valentine’s story?
(How is God’s love different from the love we see in movies or cards?)
What are some ways we can celebrate Valentine’s Day as a family, focused on love and faith?
(Should we make cards for neighbors? Bake cookies for a nursing home?)

Prayer to St. Valentine: O glorious Saint Valentine, lover of Christ and of the Church, we ask your intercession that we may learn how to love God above all things, and to selflessly love one another. O glorious Saint Valentine, pray for us, that we too may have the steadfast faith of the martyrs.

Love within Relationships Focused Prayer: I ask you, St. Valentine, for sincere love, the kind that's meant to stay. Just like the generous love, you give to those you touch each day. I pray for love from his/her family, and from every cherished friend. Then I ask you to give him/her, God's love that knows no end.

God's Love: Dear Lord, who art high in the Heavens, Giver of Love and Passion, and He who strings the heart's cords, Lead the Lovers this day, February ten plus four. The day during the month of two, When the date is the perfect number of God. Greater two souls and two hearts. Some Loves are fleeting, But that which is built on you will never fail. So guide the Lovers to know what is to be. Your truths the Lovers' mouths should speak, For Your truth is that which is honest to the heart.

While Valentine’s Day is often associated with candy, flowers, and romance, why not use it as an opportunity to practice some of the works of mercy? The Catholic Company has a great infographic that outlines what they are and whether they’re spiritual or corporal. An easy application that comes to mind for the spiritual works of mercy is to pray a spiritual bouquet for someone (perhaps a rosary). You could also have a Mass offered for someone, living or dead. There’s nothing saying you can’t enjoy some sweets on Valentine’s Day (or some flowers, for that matter). But this can be an opportunity to do something a little more and learn an important lesson in what God offers each of us.