Saint Valentine Church Shrine

Valentine lived in Rome during Emperor Claudius reign in the third century. Claudius wanted more soldiers for his army, but married men did not want to leave their wives and families for army life. So the Emperor banned all new marriages.

Valentine continued to marry couples in secret until he was caught and thrown in prison. On February 14^th, 269 A.D. he was martyred. Before he died he left a note for a friend and signed it, “Love from your Valentine.” This started the custom of leaving love messages on St Valentine’s Day.

An Irish Carmelite name John Spratt was visiting Rome in 1835, he was a skilled preacher. The elite of Rome came to hear him; Pope Gregory XVI was impressed with the Carmelite, he gave him the remains of Saint Valentine.

He was building a new church to Our Lady of Mount Carmel on Whitefriar Street Dublin, and that is where he put the remains of Saint Valentine.

The shrine is visited daily by couples who pray to St Valentine to bless their love for each other.

On February 14^th couples come to the Eucharistic celebrations which includes a Blessing of Rings for those about to be married. Rings are also blessed at the 11.00am and 3.15pm Masses.

St Valentine’s Shrine is on your right hand side as you enter the church. So if you are ever in Dublin, this church is well worth a visit. Light a candle at the shrine of St Valentine for the one you love.