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Considered one of the most prolific writer of the early popes and the last pope of African origin of the Roman Catholic Church, Pope Saint Gelasius I is known to have declared February 14, 496 A.D., as the first Feast Day of Saint Valentine. As we know, three saints by the name of "Valentinus" or Saint Valentine were martyred for their faith, with the patronage of Saint Valentine extending to epilepsy, the plague, travelers and young people.But only one was associated with love and marriage.

Bishop of Interamna

Many countries celebrate Saint Valentine patrons, but the one known as the Bishop of Interamna was linked to love because he was the first religious patron to oversee the marriage celebration between a Christian woman and a pagan man.

History shows us that Rome (under Claudius II Gothicus) struggled in enlisting young men as soldiers as the men were marrying to protect them from enlistment. Because of this, all marriages were outlawed by Rome. At this same time, Christianity was under maximum persecution, with Christians being throw to the lions and gladiators. In defiance of this Roman law, the Bishop priest secretly performed secret marriages.

Because of this, the Bishop was sentenced to death on February 14th. The day before he was to die, he sent a note to the jailor's daughter and signed it "from your Valentine". He was then scourged, imprisoned and beheaded by the Roman Placidus, Prefect of Interanma.

"Valentinus of Rome was beheaded on the celebration day of the Roman God Juno, 14 Feb. 269 AD. Pope Gelasius created an official day of the church (St. Valentine's Day, in memory of the priest) on 14 Feb. 496 AD."

In order to prevent a Christian uprising, he was buried quickly with his body hidden. But three of his disciples found the body and moved it to Terni, where every year now on February 14th exhibits, fairs and cultural events are held in his name.

Pope Gelasius I

The Pope Gelasius I was recognized as a very stanch upholder of old traditions while recognizing when to make exceptions or modifications.  He has remained a deep influence on the Roman Catholic Church's development of church polity, of the liturgy and ecclesiastical discipline, with many of his decrees incorporated into today's Canon Law.

Pope Gelasius I was extremely famous for his penance, spirit of prayer, and studies while being a true father to the poor. He died penniless because of his extreme lavishness to charity, and the feast of St. Gelasius is celebrated on November 21st.