Sunday, 11 February 2018

Should A Christian Celebrate Valentine's Day


illustration

Valentine's day is around the corner and lots of people are warming up to have a nice time with their loved ones,share gifts and express love in different forms. As St Valentines day continue to gain popularity among the youths and elderly, one would wonder if the celebration is biblical and right for Christians to observe.
Before we begin to think about returning that gift we already purchased for him/her or consider cancelling that date we booked at a fancy restaurant, let's take a closer look at the origin of Valentines day and where it was mentioned in the bible.
Valentines day, usually commemorated on February 14 is associated with the tradition of courtly love-which is an experience between  desire and spiritual attainment.

Named after St Valentine of Rome, in the 3rd-century, who was martyred and buried at a cemetery at the Via Flaminia close to the Ponte Milvio to the north of Rome on February 14.In essence, the Valentines day celebration is a remembrance ceremony of the late Saint.

In 1969, the catholic church removed the St Valentines name from the General Roman calendar, because little was reliably known about him,leaving his liturgical celebration to local calendars.
Although still recognized as a saint among-st the Roman  Catholics and authorizing liturgical veneration of him on February 14, it is not obligatory that a celebration be held in observance of that day.
The Anglican Communion,the Greek orthodox as well as in Lutheranism commemorate St Valentine on February 14, while the Eastern Orthodox church celebrate theirs July 30.
There is no chapter in the bible, of Jesus Christ instructing his followers to commemorate the St Valentines day or not, as this subject was not recorded or totally skipped in the bible.

It is up to us as individuals to consider whether or not it is appropriate for Christians to observe the Valentines day.

Spread love everyday, do not wait for February 14 to show that special someone, that you care!


No comments:

Post a Comment