Should We Celebrate Valentine’s Day?

What comes to mind when you think about Valentine’s Day? Do you think of Candy, Flowers, Doves or Cards? What about the Bible? Some Christians say that Valentine’s Day is a pagan holiday whose roots are associated with the fertility god Lupercus and should not be celebrated.

Lupercalia was an ancient Roman event celebrated on February 15 th . Lupercalia began by sacrificing a dog and a goat.

The men called Luperci would take the hides of the sacrificed animals, dip them in the animal’s blood and whip the women to promote fertility. It was bloody, violent and sexually charged.

That is why some say it should not be celebrated.

Pope Gelasius wanted to change the pagan celebration to a Christian holiday honoring Saint Valentine, who was considered the patron saint of love. He changed the date from February 15 th to February 14 th .  February 14 th was the day of his martyrdom.

There are still some others that say Valentine’s Day is simply a money maker. In the U.S. Valentine’s week, people are expected to spend about 5 Billion Dollars or more in candy alone. (Wow)!!!!

Regardless of how you feel, for me personally I think Valentine’s Day is about Love and the Bible is full of Love .

We cannot forget about the 1st and great commandment, you should Love The Lord Your God with all your heart, mind and soul and you should Love your neighbor as yourself.

Here are two other verses about Love from The Song of Solomon: 1:2 and 4:10 (NIV)

Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth— for your love is more delightful than wine.

How delightful is your love, my sister, my bride! How much more pleasing is your love than wine, and the fragrance of your perfume more than any spice!

Please note that according to my research, be it true or not, Valentine’s Day is no longer part of the Christian Church. It was dropped from the liturgical calendar of the Catholic Church, in 1969 due to uncertainties about historical details. It is no longer officially recognized on the church calendar.

Is Valentine’s Day still considered a pagan holiday? Do we celebrate or do we not celebrate Valentine’s Day?

I say do what you feel is right in your own heart.

God Loves you either way.