We celebrate St. Valentine's Day

St Valentine's Day has its roots in several different legends that have found their way to us through the ages.

One of the most popular informs us that Valentine, a Christian priest, had been thrown in prison for his teachings.

While languishing in prison, he supposedly cured the jailer's daughter of her blindness. The night before he was executed, he wrote the jailer's daughter a farewell letter, signing it "From Your Valentine."

On February 14, Valentine was beheaded, not only because he was a Christian, but also because he had performed a miracle. This is to be understood in the context of the fact that three hundred years after the death of Jesus Christ, the Roman emperors still demanded that everyone had to  believe in the Roman gods.

The custom of choosing a sweetheart on this date spread through Europe in the Middle Ages.

Throughout the ages, people also believed that birds picked their mates on February 14!

Whatever the odd mixture of origins, St Valentine's Day is now a day for friends and sweethearts. It is the day that you show your friend or loved one that you care. Many people send a "valentine" greeting card named after the notes that St. Valentine sent from jail.

At our retirement village the occasion is celebrated each year by presenting a St. Valentine's Tea.

Lienkie Ellis, Rita Vosloo and Lirpa Kuntz were responsible for the snacks, etc. 

A view of the proceedings

A group of residents enjoying each other's company

More residents enjoying the Tea