Valentina

Holy Martyr Valentina suffered at Caesarea of Palestine in the year 308, in the time of the emperor Maximian Galerius (305 to 311), with Ennatha of Gaza and Paul. Valentina was a native of Caesarea in Palestine.

Ennatha was the first brought to trial before the governor Firmilian, and she boldly confessed that she was a Christian; she was beaten, hung from a pillar and scourged. Valentina saw her suffering and could not keep silent, and spoke resolutely to the governor; she was taken to a pagan temple to offer sacrifice, but hurled a stone at the sacrifice and turned her back on it. She was beaten mercilessly. Then a young man, Paul (called Paula in some sources), came forward and boldly denounced Firmilian's crime. Enraged, the governor ordered Paul beheaded and Ennatha and Valentina burned alive. Before his death Paul gave thanks to the Lord who had strengthened him, and bowed his neck beneath the sword.

The three holy martyrs are commemorated on 10 February (new style).