On this episode of Catholic Women Now, Julie Nelson and Chris McGruder dive into the beautiful and often-misunderstood tradition of the Twelve Days of Christmas—the joyful season that begins on Christmas Day and continues through the Feast of the Epiphany.

The hosts reflect on faith lived out in everyday life, including encouragement, goodness, and visible Christian witness, before walking listeners through each of the twelve days. They explain the biblical and catechetical symbolism behind the classic Christmas song, rooted in Catholic teaching during times of persecution, and connect each day to Church feast days, saints, and key elements of the faith.

Drawing from family traditions shared by Sue Smith, they offer creative and practical ways to celebrate each day—whether with young children, teens, or adult families—through food, prayer, service, music, and fun. This episode is a perfect reminder that Christmas is not just one day, but a season meant to be savored, celebrated, and passed on.

Julie Nelson

Chris McGruder

The Catholic origins of the Twelve Days of Christmas

Biblical and catechetical symbolism behind each day

Feast days and saints within the Christmas Octave

Practical family traditions for celebrating Christmas well

Encouragement, goodness, and living faith publicly

Slowing down to receive Christ during the Christmas season

#CatholicWomenNow #TwelveDaysOfChristmas #CatholicTraditions
#CatholicFamily #ChristmasOctave #Epiphany
#FaithAtHome #LiturgicalYear #CatholicRadio

Iowa Catholic Radio Network Shows:

• Be Not Afraid with Fr. PJ McManus
• Be Not Afraid in Spanish with Fr. Fabian Moncada
• Catholic Women Now with Chris Magruder and Julie Nelson
• Making It Personal with Bishop William Joensen
• Man Up! with Joe Stopulus
• The Catholic Morning Show with Dr. Bo Bonner
• The Daily Gospel Reflection with Fr. Nick Smith
• The Uncommon Good with Bo Bonner and Dr. Bud Marr
• Faith and Family Finance with Gregory Waddle

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