Brief History of the 12 Days of Christmas
Each of us is familiar with the song “The Twelve Days of Christmas”. Did you know that it originated as a way to share our faith with the younger generation during a time when Catholicism wasn't allowed to be outwardly practiced? From 1558 until 1829, while the Church of England was the only formidable faith practice in England, Catholics had to be quiet and clever when sharing their faith with one another. During this time, the beloved Christmas song, “The Twelve Days of Christmas”, was written to do just that. Each day of Christmas invites us deeper into our faith which we will explore below! As we journey through the twelve days of Christmas, starting on Christmas day and ending the day before the Epiphany, allow the glory and mystery of the season to pierce the way you celebrate this year and for years to come.
The 1st Day of Christmas: Jesus Christ
“On the First Day of Christmas, my true love gave to me a partridge in a pear tree”. I don’t know how well-versed you are in your ornithology, but a partridge is a bird well known to sacrifice itself for its young. The partridge therefore represents Christ and the pear tree represents his cross. How beautiful an opportunity to reflect on Christ’s sacrificial love for us, even when celebrating his birth.
Take time today to reflect on the goodness and glory of Christ’s sacrifice on the cross and how it connects to rejoicing in his birth. If you have children, invite them into this reflection by drawing a partridge in a pear tree while discussing the true meaning of the image with them.
The 2nd Day of Christmas: Old and New Testaments
“On the Second Day of Christmas, my true love gave to me two turtle doves.” Turtle doves are seen as symbols of love, fidelity, and connection, which is also a fitting description of the Old and New Testament, which is the deeper meaning of the second day. Christ’s very life served as a connection of love and fidelity. The New Testament told the story of Christ fulfilling the Old Testament.
Reflect today on the connection between the Old and New Testaments. Be intentional about reading from both today.
The 3rd Day of Christmas: Faith, Hope, Love
“On the Third Day of Christmas, my true love gave to me three French hens.” The three French hens simply represent the three theological virtues of faith, hope and love. The theological virtue of faith allows us to believe true things about God’s very self and his relationship to Humanity. Hope is the basis upon which we trust in God and work toward the good. Charity is the virtue necessary for Heaven; it is the virtue by which we love God above all things and our neighbors as ourself (CCC 1822).
Today reflect upon how each of these virtues invites us into deeper union with the Trinity during the Christmas season.
The 4th Day of Christmas: The Four Gospels
“On the Fourth Day of Christmas, my true love gave to me four calling birds.” These four calling birds represent Matthew, Mark, Luke and John or more importantly the four gospels. What a beautiful parallel songbirds provide to the gospel writers. Each reflecting the truth, goodness and beauty of God’s creation.
Today, read the account of the birth of Christ from each of Matthew and Luke’s gospels. Compare each and allow this to draw you in closer to the birth of Christ. Read: Matthew 1:18 thru 2:12; Luke 1:1 & 2:1-20
The 5th Day of Christmas: The Pentateuch
“On the Fifth Day of Christmas, my true love gave to me five golden rings.” The five golden rings represent the first five books of the bible, commonly referred to as the Pentateuch. These five books are Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers and Deuteronomy.
Today spend time reading from your favorite of these five books or a bit from each of the books. Reflect on day two and allow yourself to see the connections between these books as well as the birth of Christ.
The 6th Day of Christmas: Six Days of Creation
“On the Sixth Day of Christmas, my true love gave to me six geese a-laying.” The six geese represent the six days of creation.
Day one: light and darkness
Day two: sky and sea
Day three: dry land and plants
Day four: sun, moon and stars
Day five: water and sky animals
Day six: land animals and people
Today read Genesis 1-4 and reflect on the Creation account. Be intentional about spending time outside with children or loved ones to share in God’s creation.
*Note: Stay tuned for Days 7-12 of Christmas in our next blog scheduled to be released
on 12/30/2024!
Emma Pourciau is a student at Franciscan Missionary of Our Lady University (Fran U) in Baton Rouge, LA. She is pursuing a Nursing major with minors in Theology and Ethics. Emma is passionate about moral theology, holistic care, and upholding women's dignity and co-authored the book “Fiat 40 Journal: A Women’s 40 Day Journey to Renewal, Restoration, and Redemption.” She plans to pursue a career in Women’s Health.
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