quiregrrl | The things you learn working for the pope

From an email just circulated to entire staff:

Twelve Days of Christmas as a reminder of our Catholic beliefs:

-The twelve drummers drumming symbolized the twelve points of belief in the
Apostles' Creed

-The eleven pipers piping stood for the eleven faithful disciples.

-The ten Lords a-leaping were the ten commandments.

-Nine ladies dancing were the nine fruits of the Holy Spirit--Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness, and Self Control.

-The eight Maids a-milking were the eight beatitudes.

-Seven swans a-swimming represented the sevenfold gifts of the Holy
Spirit--Prophesy, Serving, Teaching, Exhortation, Contribution, Leadership, and Mercy.

-The six geese a-laying stood for the six days of creation.

-The five golden rings recalled the first five books of the Old Testament.

-The four calling birds were the four gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke & John.

-Three French hens stood for faith, hope and love.

-Two turtle doves were the Old and New Testaments.

-The partridge in a pear tree was Jesus Christ.