Christmas Blessings ~ The Joy of our Savior

One of my fondest memories from when I was a little boy was going to various parties with my family and listening to Christmas carols, no matter what they were, the music kept me rapt in the season; focused on why we celebrate. Years later when I became a history teacher I would engage my students in a lesson the week before Christmas that shared my early passion for music and appreciation for the reason for the season. As we are all aware in the early history of our faith many secular institutions would outlaw the practice of Catholicism, forcing the faithful to worship in private. Specifically, if we closely look at the whimsical Twelve Days of Christmas we can see our faith proclaimed. 1 A Partridge in a pear tree refers to Jesus Christ, the son of God 2 Turtle Doves refers to the Old and New Testaments 3 French Hens refers to Faith, Hope and Charity, the Theological Virtues 4 Calling Birds refers to the Four Gospels and/or the Four Evangelists 5 Golden Rings refers to the first Five Books of the Old Testament, the "Pentateuch", which gives the history of man's fall from grace. 6 Geese A-laying refers to the six days of creation 7 Swans A-swimming refers to the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit, the seven sacraments 8 Maids A-milking refers to the eight beatitudes 9 Ladies Dancing refers to the nine Fruits of the Holy Spirit 10 Lords A-leaping refers to the ten commandments 11 Pipers Piping refers to the eleven faithful apostles 12 Drummers Drumming refers to the twelve points of doctrine in the Apostle's Creed. As adults we know that it is better to give than receive and what a better gift to give than the faith and love that is shared with the joy of our Savior’s birth. Our faith is everywhere, we just have to look, listen, and believe. With that I offer you my wishes for a safe and blessed Christmas and joyous New Year. May our Savior keep you in His loving arms as we travel along our winding journey to meet Him some day. Peace, Scott