12 Days of Christmas


Everyone has heard the classic song, "The 12 Days of Christmas," but few know of its hidden meanings. During persecution in England, Catholics had to be creative to pass on the holy Faith. This song is one of those beautiful creations, that actually taught children articles of Catholicism.

A partridge in a pear tree ~ Jesus (a partridge bird was willing to sacrifice itself for its young)
Two turtle doves ~ Old and New Testaments
Three french hens ~ Three theological virtues of Faith, Hope, and Love
Four calling birds ~ Four Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John
Five golden rings ~ First five books of the Old Testament (the Pentateuch)
Six geese a-laying ~ Six days of creation
Seven swans a-swimming ~ Seven Gifts of the Holy Spirit
Eight maids a-milking ~ Eight Beatitudes
Nine ladies dancing ~ Nine Fruits of the Holy Spirit
Ten lords a-leaping ~ Ten Commandments
Eleven pipers piping ~ Eleven faithful Apostles
Twelve drummers drumming ~ Twelve points of belief in the Apostles' Creed

Now this song will mean all the more to you! Happy Gaudete Sunday!