The day of remembering Saint Faustino, which happens to fall on February 15, took on a new meaning back in 2001, as it was then designated to be Singles’ Day. Spearheaded by the website Vita da Single, which aims to provide support and encouragement to those living a single life, this day is being adopted across Italy. It gives those looking for love the opportunity to participate in parties and special events, such as dinners, organised just for singles. Participants have the opportunity to find love at events planned for this day. However, they might simply want to make some new friends and embrace their singledom at the time of year which is focused on couples and romance.
Saint Faustino might have been chosen as a representative of Singles’ Day for little more than the fact that his feast day falls on February 15, a day after Valentine’s Day. However, some say that when he was a priest, he was alleged to have engaged in quite a bit of matchmaking. But his life, according to other accounts, seems to have been less focused on love than war, as he was reputed to have been active in keeping his city, Brescia, safe by fighting against her enemies. While many details about his life remain shrouded in conjecture, one that seems most likely to be true is that Saint Faustino was executed.
Brescia, the city of which Saint Faustino is patron, has not forgotten the saint who apparently played such an important role in her protection. Long after his death, his spirit is said to remain a protective force for the Castle of Brescia. Last week the city took on a glow, as the Castle was decorated with lights to mark the International Festival of Lights. This occurred in conjunction with the day allocated to remember the saint and part of the light display is a representation of him.
Whatever the actions of Saint Faustino, there is no denying that his feast day has become a significant occasion for singles. Singles’ Day has been embraced by those not expecting to receive flowers or chocolates from a smitten lover and seems to be growing into something that rivals the day devoted to love.
