THE SONG was written at a time in England when Catholic worship was illegal (1558 - 1829 CE). During this time, Catholics could be imprisoned or even executed if they were caught practicing their faith, so they had come up with secret ways of worshiping.
The Twelve Days of Christmas was one of the many catechisms (writings that teach the basic elements of Catholicism) that were written at this time. These catechisms were unusual because their secular wording masked their true meaning. Here is what each symbolizes:
- The partridge in the pear tree - is said to symbolize Jesus Christ, a mother partridge protecting her nestlings (Jesus' followers).
- Two turtle doves - are the Old and New Testaments.
- Three French hens - are the Christian virtues of faith, hope and charity.
- Four calling birds - are the four Gospels, Matthew, Mark, Luke and John.
- Five gold rings - are the first five books of the Old Testament telling the story of man's fall from grace.
- Six geese a laying - are the six days of creation.
- Seven swans a-swimming - are the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit.
- Eight maids a-milking - are the eight Beatitudes.
- Nine ladies dancing - are the nine fruits of the Holy Spirit.
- Ten lords a-leaping - are the Ten Commandments.
- Eleven pipers piping - are the 11 faithful disciples.
- Twelve drummers drumming - are the 12 points of belief in the Apostles' Creed.
Recycled Page
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JULY 1, 2012
13th Sunday in Ordinary Time
GRATEFUL
Grateful for the life you give us,
Thankful for your Holy Son,
Joyful in your Spirit flowing
Over all, O God of Love.
Grateful for the Bread of Heaven,
Thankful for your Holy Word,
Joyful in your mercy flowing,
We will praise you.
You are more than we imagine,
Ancient, Holy, Living Lord.
Even when we doubt your presence
You are faithful to your Word.
May our lives proclaim your justice,
May our voices sing your praise.
May our hands
Work in your service
To the glory of your name.
-Thomas N. Tomaszek - spiritandsong.com
Published 7/2/12 ust1611 multiply
Web Page: Grateful
Hydrangea still blooming in my garden.
ReplyDeleteI had orchids bloom for me the second time here in LA.
ReplyDeleteI wonder about my house plants in Illinois??????????
Got a surprise when I opened the door, the most awaited pkg
Thank you , you did a good job as always
Da biionic.
Da B