Saint Martin magazine Question Box for December explains the meaning of The Twelve Days of Christmas.It was written in England during the period when Catholics were not allowed to practice their faith openly and it was intended as a catechism for young Catholics,to help them remember lessons in their faith. The "true love" refers to God; the "me" to every baptised person. The partridge refers to Jesus Christ. The meaning of the other symbols ;
Two turtle doves --- the Old and New Testaments.
Three French Hens ......Faith, Hope and Charity.
Four calling birds ...... the four gospels.
Five golden rings .... the first five books of the Old Testament.
Six geese ...... the six days of creation.
Seven swans ..... seven gifts of the Holy Ghost.
Eight maids ..... the eight beatitudes.
Nine ladies .... nine choirs of angels.
Ten lords .... the ten commandments;
Eleven pipers .... the eleven faithful Apostles.
Twelve drummers .... the twelve points of belief in the Apostles Creed.
Bridie Carry has one of the magazines and is learning the meanings in preparation for the weekly quiz on the Wednesday nights coming up to Christmas.