The modernization of St. Valentine’s Day claims the day is all about love notes, chocolate, and roses. However, the history of Valentine’s Day is a little more complicated than that.

Below, you will find a few links outlining the history/speculation of Saint Valentine’s Day. Some of the stories are surrounded by mystery, hardship, and bravery. All of the stories end with the death of “Saint Valentine”.

Grab the free printable study of real love!

What is Valentine’s Day?

History of Valentine’s Day

The Bloody History Of Saint Valentine: The Martyred Roman Priest Who Officiated Marriages

Valentine’s Day

Our absolute favorite history lesson about St. Valentine’s Day and the origin of its name can be found in the Mystery of History books! We have it in audio format and have loved listening to it over and over again (all of the book, not just the part about Saint Valentine!). If you are looking for a Biblically-based history curriculum, I recommend the Mystery of History!

What’s interesting (and scary) is how a pagan holiday was combined with the life of a Saint Valentine (or two) to create our modern-day version of Valentine’s Day. You can read a more descriptive (and kind of gross) account of the original pagan festival HERE.

Learning To Love As A Christian

KJV Holy Bible, Giant Print Full-size Faux Leather Red Letter Edition – Thumb Index & Ribbon Marker, King James Version, Pink (KJV Full Size GP Editions)The Kindness Challenge – 30 Scratch-Off Acts of Kindness Cards | Fun & Meaningful Game for Families, Friends & Groups | Icebreaker & Team-Building Activity | Inspired by Jimmy DartsThe Four LovesPocketful of Pinecones: Nature Study With the Gentle Art of Learning : A Story for Mother CultureSaint ValentineThe Mystery of History, Volume II, Quarter 1: The Early Church and the Middle Ages

As Christians, if we choose to celebrate the martyrdom of (the two) Saint Valentine, then we should do so by remembering the history behind the name. While we can interpret the holiday to be centered around love (the love of Saint Valentine for the Lord, God’s love for us, our love towards one another, etc.), we should be careful not to adopt pagan traditions or celebrations.

Educating ourselves is important! And, I hope you found the above resources helpful for that purpose.

You May Also Like:

Alone Yet Not Alone {10 Scriptures Of Love For Your Heart}

50 Date Ideas From Frugal To Fancy {Free Printable}