Yes, there was a Saint Valentine. In fact it seems there were many early Christian martyrs named Valentine.
But people do not think of these saints when they celebrate St. Valentine’s Day. February 14 is a more superficial celebration of ‘romantic love’, popularised by Medieval artists, Renaissance poets and contemporary commercial entrepreneurs.
This is far from the witness of early Christian Valentines who died as martyrs in love of their God.
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If you are ready for a broader faith perspective you might appreciate this offering – something a little different
In every encounter, local and afar, with people of every age and at every stage of life, the struggles and joys of people are remarkably similar.
Humans too often make the fatal mistake of separating body and soul, yet our deep desire is for unity of body and soul.
Both readings are personal favourites and every time I hear them and ponder them these texts speak to me in new and powerful ways.
Too often we settle for an existence of lurching from one satisfaction to the next.