The phrase refers to adaptations of a popular Christmas carol where the original secular lyrics are replaced with content reflecting Christian themes and beliefs. A Portable Document Format (PDF) is a common file format used for distributing these lyric sheets, allowing for easy access and printing. These versions maintain the cumulative structure of the traditional song, but the gifts described are substituted with items or concepts related to faith, biblical figures, or spiritual virtues. For instance, “Twelve drummers drumming” might be replaced with “Twelve apostles proclaiming.”
These adapted versions serve to align the festive celebration more closely with the religious underpinnings of Christmas. They provide a means for families, churches, and religious organizations to incorporate faith-based messages into seasonal traditions. The benefit lies in reinforcing Christian values and teachings through a familiar and engaging format. While the traditional carol has a long history, these faith-based adaptations are a more recent phenomenon, reflecting a desire to integrate secular customs with religious expression.
