SAINT VALENTINE IN BIERUN

by Bartłomiej Blacha, Gimnazjum nr 2 im. św. Walentego w Bieruniu

Christmas went by and shops’ windows will be soon full of heart - shaped outline, doves, and the figure of the winged Cupid. The 14^th February is coming! Valentine’s Day customs developed in England, but nowadays they are spread to many countries around the world. On the 14th of February small gifts and flowers are given not only by people falling in love with each other. We remember about our friends, parents or children. It’s surprising that, according to the U.S. Greeting Card Association, teachers become the people receiving the most valentines!

St. Valentine's monument in Bieruń

Do you know that Saint Valentine’s cult has been strongly associated with Bieruń for a few hundred years? There is a wooden church built in the first half of 17^th century, whose patron is Saint Valentine. The church is the place, where both sick people as well as lovers arrive to ask for favours. It is famous in the whole region. This year on the February 14th the church is going to be proclaimed a sanctuary by a bishop.

   

 In 2003 St. Valentine became a patron of  Bieruń and his monument was built. In 2012 we chose Valentine as a patron of our school. He won a special election held amongst students, teachers and citizens. St. Valentine was sensitive for people’s suffer, needs. He always wanted to help others, even with warm words of consolation, if nothing else was possible.

St. Valentine's church in Bieruń

As you can see we have many reasons to celebrate the 14^th  February in a special way. A lot of people arrive to our town to pray to St. Valentine and to participate the holy Mass. After the ceremonies nearly everyone visits a traditional fair with lots of different sweets, toys and balloons.

 

 

LINKS:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Valentine's_Day

http://www.bierun.pl/miasto_bierun/kosciol_sw_walentego.html,
http://www.gimnazjum2.bierun.pl/index.php?ps=patron