Valentine's Day blessing for all relationships at St. James church

West Dundee-Feb. 9: On Valentine's Day, Sunday, Feb. 14, St. James Episcopal Church will offer a blessing for all persons in committed relationships.

Valentine's Day has been exclusive to couples, but this Sunday a special blessing will be performed by the Rev. Donald Frye, rector of St. James Church, for close friends or single parents with children as well.

"We take relationships seriously and want to help encourage healthy relationships for everyone who is in one - whether married, in civil unions, long-term relationships where marriage would impact their financial situation, close friendships, or single parents and their kids," said Father Frye. "We want to offer God's blessing on these relationships in a unique and more meaningful way to express their love and affection for each other beyond the usual exchange of cards, gifts and flowers."

Everyone who attends and wants a blessing will be given a gift to record the meaningful ways in which they can express what they love about each other.

After the 10 a.m. service, a special coffee hour will follow in the church's parish house. The blessing will be held during both the 8 and 10 a.m. services on Feb. 14.

St. James Episcopal Church is located at 516 Washington St. in West Dundee. For information, visit stjamesdundee.org.