Valentine’s Day, a celebration of love wrapped in candy hearts, roses and chocolates, traces back to St. Valentine. But the origins are far more complex — and darker than the chocolate we indulge in on the day of love. Valentine’s Day is rooted in ancient Roman rituals, where sacrifice and secrecy intertwined with the idea of love.

Father Michael said Saint Valentine was one, very real person– or at least the man that the church honored with a feast was no legend. He said he did not know of the secret marriage ceremonies, but Valentine's martyrdom for his religion is what strongly resonated with people.