Saint Foillan of Fosses

Biography

Name: Saint Valentine of Segovia Also known as: N/A Profile: Brother of Saint Fructus of Segovia and Saint Engratia of Segovia. Martyred by invading Moors. Representation: N/A Precongregation: Pre-Congregation Feast Days: October 26th Born: In Sepulveda, Castile (modern Spain) Died: Around the year 715; relics located at Segovia, Spain Canonized: Pre-Congregation Patron: Segovia, Spain Saint Valentine of Segovia, a lesser-known but highly revered Catholic saint, was born in Sepulveda, Castile (modern Spain). He grew up alongside his siblings, Saint Fructus of Segovia and Saint Engratia of Segovia, in a pious Christian household. Little is known about his early life, but his unwavering faith and devotion to God became evident as he matured into adulthood. During the early 8th century, the region of Segovia was subjected to the invasion and occupation of the Moors, a Muslim community. Saint Valentine, together with his siblings, firmly resisted the oppression of their Christian faith, becoming vocal advocates for their religion and defenders of the local Christian community. However, their unwavering faith and fearless proclamation of Christianity caught the attention of the Moorish authorities. Saint Valentine and his siblings were captured and brought before the Moorish ruler. Despite being subjected to torture and persecution, they all remained steadfast in their beliefs. Saint Valentine, showing immense courage and determination, refused to renounce his faith, even in the face of death. Ultimately, Saint Valentine and his siblings were executed for their refusal to submit to the Moorish rule. Their martyrdom occurred around the year 715, leaving an indelible mark on the history and faith of Segovia. After their deaths, the remains of Saint Valentine and his siblings were transferred to Segovia, where they were buried. His relics became a source of veneration and pilgrimage for the faithful, as believers sought his intercession and protection. Although there is not much information available regarding Saint Valentine's specific representation, he is remembered as a valiant defender of the Christian faith, a symbol of unwavering devotion, and an inspiration to those facing religious persecution. Saint Valentine of Segovia was canonized by the Catholic Church before the formal establishment of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints, which oversees modern canonizations. Therefore, he was canonized during the pre-congregational period, making his sainthood recognized and celebrated by the Church. Today, Saint Valentine of Segovia is honored as the patron saint of Segovia, Spain. As the patron saint, he is invoked for protection, guidance, and spiritual strength, especially in times of adversity and religious persecution. His feast day is celebrated on October 26th, and it serves as a reminder of his fearless witness to the Christian faith and his enduring legacy in the city of Segovia and beyond.