St. Valentine's Day

Valentine was a third century pastor who was imprisoned for his faith. According to tradition, he wrote small pastoral notes to members of his congregation on leaves he was able to pluck from a maple tree just outside his cell. These little “Valentine’s cards” expressed his love for the flock, and his desire that they demonstrate like love toward one another. Gradually the tradition grew up for Christians to exchange notes of love and encouragement to one another on this, his birthday. Alas, the modern commercialization of the tradition has all but obscured this beautiful token of gracious fellowship.