Lore says that the “Twelve Drummers Drumming” represent the twelve points of the Apostles’ Creed.

For many Christians, the Apostles’ Creed is a regular part of Sunday worship. Many have memorized it and can recite it from rote in unison when the occasion calls. But few have taken the time to study and understand why it is important.

The Apostles’ Creed, or any creed for that matter, is a declaration on our part of the truth of faith. It is a reminder to us that we as Christians are united in our beliefs and trust in the truth that the church has taught for centuries. These truths are based on the scriptures that God has given us and have been honed through the years by great teachers and leaders. They are a proclamation on our part of the historic tradition of the church and our belief in the truth of scripture.

There are many things in Christianity that churches continue to debate. Different churches exist because of differing views on the sacraments, church leadership, or other points of theology. But all Christians are united in the belief that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, fully God and fully man, and that we have salvation through His death and resurrection. In Christ we are united as one. We hold this as our common creed.

Romans 6:5 says, “If we have been united with Him like this in His death, we will certainly also be united with Him in His resurrection.” What a joy it is to know that Christ unites us as one!