In the second century he was not called "Saint". He was simply called brother Valens (Latin for 'worthy') and he lived up to his name.
At a time when it was expressly forbidden to help Christians in any way he was known for performing the rites of marriage and baptism.
The picture denotes him baptizing a prominent Roman lady for which he was quickly arrested.
Brought into the presence of Claudius 2nd on several occasions, the
Roman Emperor had a liking for the young man's company until, that is, Valens tried to convert him.
For that Valens was sentenced to death.
A few hundred years were to pass before he had sainthood bestowed upon him and another century before Geoffrey Chaucer, the English poet, declared 14th February to be his special day.
I thought that you might be interested in this short bio lest you think Valentine to be the patron saint of lingerie,roses and chocolates .... a long way removed from dying for one's faith in Christ.
Happy Valentine's Day.
Ian
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