| The Twelve Days of Christmas | |
I collect 12 Days of Christmas stuff. Books, glasses, plates, coasters, etc. You name it, and I probably have it! One of the interesting things though is that these items don't share the real meaning behind the catchy lyrics.
There are several theories floating around the Internet about this song. But the reality is that its origins are simply not known. It appears to have been written in France because three French versions of the song have been discovered. A children's book entitled, Mirth Without Mischief published in 1780 presents the song as a Twelfth Night game. The leader would recite a verse, and each of the players would try to repeat the verse. Then the leader would add another verse, and the game went on until someone made a mistake. The player with the poor memory would have to then kiss someone or share one of their treats.
There are many, many pages on the Internet that discuss the song's origins as being an underground catechism mnemonic device during the time when being a Catholic in England was risky.
One of the reasons many don't believe this theory is that there is nothing in the catechism which is inconsistent with the Anglican faith, so what is there for Catholics to hide?
More information about the song:
Article disputing the theological theories about the song.
More about the Twelve Days of Christmas urban legend.
Their research into the Twelve Days of Christmas urban legend.
More information on the Twelve Days of Christmas urban legend.
A letter from Dr. Thomas G. Wack of Wheeling Jesuit University giving reasons why the song is not a catechism song.
Explanation of how the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of Canada celebrates this time after Christmas.
Includes the Sara Truelove funny story.
Christmas devotionals for each of the days.
Sheri and Bob Stritof