1 Partridge in a Pear Tree – Christ who died on the Cross for our sins
2 Turtle Doves – the 2 books of the Bible – the Old and New Testaments
3 French Hens – The 3 gifts of the Magi – gold, frankincense and myrrh
4 Calling Birds – The four Gospels – Matthew, Mark, Luke and John
5 Golden Rings – the first five books of the Bible, also known as the Torah Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers and Deuteronomy
6 Geese a Laying – the six days of Creation
7 Swans a Swimming – the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit – prophecy, ministry, teaching, exhortation, giving, leading and compassion (Romans 12:6-8, 1 Corinthians 12:8-11) or wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety and fear of the Lord
8 Maids a Milking – The eight Beatitudes – Blessed are the poor in spirit, those who mourn, the meek, those who hunger and thirst for the righteouseness, the merciful, the pure in heart, the peacemakers, those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake (Matthew 5:3-10)
9 Ladies Dancing – The nine Fruits of the Spirit – Love, joy, peace, patience, kindess, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control (Galatians 5:22)
10 Lords a Leaping – The Ten Commandments
11 Pipers Piping – the eleven faithful Apostles – Simon Peter, Andrew, James, John, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James, Simon the Zealot, Judas (Luke 6:14-16
12 Drummers Drumming – The twelve points of the doctrine in the Apostles’ Creed
Childers