Despite this, Nero's persecution of the new Christian sect was brief and ... it had become the official religion of the Roman Empire.

Every year on February 14th, a lot of people exchange their particular Valentine with cards, candies, presents, or flowers .

According to one legend, Pope Gelasius wanted to put an end to the debauchery in the late fifth century. He declared Feb. 14 as the feast day of a St. Valentine, who had been martyred about 200 years ...

Christianity emerged within a vast empire, and it faced both severe challenges and unexpected opportunities. Persecution by Roman authorities tested the resilience of believers, while Roman ...

In fact, the Catholic Church recognizes several saints named Valentine or Valentinus, all of whom became Christian martyrs ... St. Valentine as the Roman Empire became less pagan.