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Sunday, February 15, 2026

Saint Valentina was from Caesarea of Palestine... The ancient Latin name “Valentina” means “strong, vigorous and healthy.”

Saint Valentina of Caesarea of Palestine 
Died: c.308
Feast Day: July 25
Saint Valentina from Caesarea of Palestine (her name means strong and healthy) died during the reign of the Emperor Maximian II. 

St. Valentina and her spiritual sister St. Thea, would not worship pagan idols, kicking over the pagan fire sacrifice and incense before the altar in protest. 

They were immediately tortured, beaten and finally bound together and burned to death.  

 

February 10th, is St. Valentina the martyr of Palestine

Saint Valentina was from Caesarea of Palestine. She was small and known for wearing old, worn out clothing.

Whether on a long road or a church stage, Aloka remains a steadfast support to the venerable monks, proving that peace is a journey shared by all beings...

Peace Dog Photo Credit: Palm Jariya

🐕 This morning, our faithful companion Aloka took his place right on the stage during the Peace Gathering at Legacy Church in Wytheville, VA.
 
While the venerable monks stood to share their message, Aloka sat on the ground right beside them. He looked truly dedicated to the mission. Whether on a long road or a church stage, Aloka remains a steadfast support to the venerable monks, proving that peace is a journey shared by all beings.
Photo Credit: Palm Jariya
 
May you and all beings be well, happy and at peace.

 https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=122117404935164116&set=a.122097429435164116

 [AS ALWAYS PLEASE GO TO THE LINK TO READ GOOD ARTICLES (or quotes) IN FULL: HELP SHAPE ALGORITHMS (and conversations) THAT EMPOWER DECENCY, DIGNITY, JUSTICE & PEACE... and hopefully Palestine, or at least fair and just laws and policies]  

Aloka the Peace Dog 🐕—the loyal companion with the peace heart on his forehead. Walking the 2,300-mile Walk for Peace journey with the Venerable Monks across America. Spreading peace and loving-kindness, one paw-step at a time. 🐾  
The Story of Aloka 🐾 - Many people often ask about Aloka’s breed! While we aren't exactly sure, we estimate he is about 4 years old and likely an Indian Pariah dog.
 
His journey is truly special—he was once a stray wandering in India who began following the Venerable Monks. He walked with them for over 100 days across India, very much like the #WalkForPeace we are on today! 
 
Though his exact birthday remains a mystery, his loyalty and peaceful spirit are clear to everyone he meets.
 
May you and all beings be happy and at peace. 🙏 
 
 

The venerable monks and Aloka have returned home. May their mission for peace stay with all of us. #AlokaThePeaceDog
 
🐾 On Day 112, our home temple, Huong Dao Vipassana Bhavana Center, was filled with overwhelming joy! During the Homecoming ceremony, Aloka took a moment for quiet contemplation, settling into a beautiful peace pose right in the middle of the event.
 
He seemed so happy to finally be home, surrounded by the thousands of people who gathered to welcome the venerable monks and him back. It was a powerful sight to see so many hearts joined together, ready to continue the path of peace as one community.
 
May you and all beings be well, happy and at peace. 🙏