Orland Evangelical Free Church | The 12 Days of Christmas

The Twelve Days of Christmas are probably the most misunderstood part of the church year among Christians who are not part of liturgical church traditions. These are not the twelve days before Christmas, but are the twelve days from Christmas until Epiphany.

The popular song "The Twelve Days of Christmas" is usually seen as a nonsense song for children. However, some have suggested that it is a song of Christian instruction dating to the 16^th century religious wars in England, with hidden references to the basic teachings of the Faith (go to www.cresourcei.org/cy12days.html for meaning). They contend that it was a mnemonic device to teach the catechism to youngsters. The "true love" mentioned in the song is not an earthly suitor, but refers to God Himself. The "me" who receives the presents refers to every baptized person who is part of the Christian Faith. Each of the "days" represents some aspect of the Christian Faith that was important for children to learn.

Many have questioned the historical accuracy of this origin, but there is little evidence that will either prove or disprove it.