The religious wars in sixteenth century England made it dangerous to be a Catholic. Many people practiced their faith in secret. As the legend goes, Catholic families courageously developed unique ways to secretly pass the faith onto their children, like “The 12 Days of Christmas.” The well-known song was used to teach children about the Catholic Church. Although the lyrics may sound like nonsense, the song actually contains hidden references:

My true love – God

Partridge – Jesus Christ

Turtle Doves – Old and New Testaments

French Hens – the Holy Trinity

Calling Birds – the Gospels

Golden Rings – the obligatory Catholic sacraments

Geese – the days of creation

Swans – the Catholic sacraments (the obligatory plus Holy Orders and Marriage)

Maids a-milking – the Beatitudes

Ladies dancing – fruits of the Holy Spirit

Lords a leaping – the commandments

Pipers piping – the apostles (excluding Judas)

Drummers drumming – the points of the Apostles creed.