Bloom 52 – Wilhelm Krautwaschl, Diocesan Bishop of the Diocese of Graz-Seckau

For today’s Valentine’s Day, Flowerpower surprised the Diocesan Bishop of the Diocese of Graz-Seckau, Wilhelm Krautwaschl, with a Bloom 52 delivery. This is due to the current occasion, as the “Day of Lovers” dates back to Saint Valentine.

Saint Valentine, as a Christian bishop of Rome, is said to have married couples according to church rites despite the prohibition by Emperor Claudius II. He is also said to have given the couples flowers from his garden as a symbol of their love. According to tradition, the marriages he performed were blessed. On February 14, 269, Emperor Claudius II had Bishop Valentine beheaded for his Christian faith. Later, the bishop was canonized for his conviction and sincerity. To this day, he is celebrated as Saint Valentine and the patron saint of lovers.