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December 26th - This first day of Christmas is the Feast of St. Stephen when "Good King Wenceslaus looked out...". This is a day dedicated to giving to the poor as Stephen was a deacon who gave the wealth of the church to the poor. It is also called "Boxing Day", in remembrance of giving boxes of food to the poor.

December 27th - The second day of Christmas remembers John, who wrote a lot about darkness and light. It is a custom to light lots of candles today, and to bless wine because legend has it that John drank poisoned wine without harm, and because during this time of extra hospitality, wine can be a drink of joy. "Wassail! I drink to you the love of Saint John!" Wassail means "good health".

December 28th - The third day of Christmas is also the day we remember the martyrs, the Holy Innocents, and this day is often referred to as a Christmas time Ember Day. It is a good day to not only pray and fast for deserted and unclaimed children, but also a day to write to elected officials and let them know our views relating to our respect for life. Today we remember all holy innocents of every time and place. Rachel has not ceased her weeping.

December 29th - The fourth day of Christmas remembers Thomas Becket wo was exiled and murdered for defending the rights of the church. It is also the anniversary of the massacre of native Americans at Wounded Knee, South Dakota, in 1890.

December 30th - Today, the Fifth Day of Christmas, we celebrate the Feast of the Holy Family. It is a time to be reminded of the holiness in the ordinary. A good time to bless our families.

December 31st - New Year's Eve is also "Sylvester's Night" and the Sixth Day of Christmas. Sylvester I, was a pope during a rough time in the church's history. This is the day to ask pardon of those you've hurt, to extend affection to everyone you meet, to open your door to your neighbors. The custom of making a lot of noise at midnight is actually an act of kindness. No one should be caught asleep when the master returns. (Luke 12:35-40)