Day 11 (January 4) – Eleven Pipers Piping
Theme: The Eleven Faithful Apostles (excluding Judas Iscariot)
Opening Prayer
Gather as a family or individually. Light a white candle.
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Lord Jesus Christ, You chose twelve apostles to proclaim Your Gospel to the nations.
Today we honor the eleven who remained faithful after Judas fell away.
Grant us perseverance in faith and courage to proclaim Your truth.
You live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.
Scripture Reading
Read slowly and prayerfully:
Luke 6:12–16 (The Calling of the Apostles)
“In these days he went out to the mountain to pray... and called his disciples, and chose from them twelve, whom he named apostles.”
Acts 1:12–14 (The Eleven Gather in Prayer)
“All these with one accord were devoting themselves to prayer, together with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and his brothers.”
Reflection
The eleventh gift from our True Love (God) is eleven pipers piping, symbolizing the eleven faithful apostles who continued Christ’s mission after Judas’ betrayal.
- Pipers play joyful, proclaiming music — just as the apostles boldly announced the Gospel to the world, filling it with the Good News of salvation.
- Despite their weaknesses, these ordinary men became extraordinary witnesses through the power of the Holy Spirit.
- Their unity in prayer (with Mary) in the Upper Room reminds us that faithful proclamation flows from communion with God and one another.
Questions for Personal or Family Reflection
- Which apostle’s witness inspires me most, and why?
- How am I called to “pipe” the Good News in my own life?
- Where do I need perseverance in faith when faced with trials or discouragement?
Practical Activities for Catholics
- Honor the Apostles
Pray the Apostles’ Creed slowly and reflect on its meaning. Thank God for the apostolic foundation of the Church. - Sing Together
Sing the first eleven verses of “The Twelve Days of Christmas”:
“On the eleventh day of Christmas, my true love gave to me: Eleven pipers piping...”
Follow with “Go Tell It on the Mountain” or another evangelization hymn. - Act of Charity
Proclaim the Good News: share a Scripture verse, encourage someone in faith, or invite a friend to church. - Closing Prayer – Prayer for Day 11
O Lord Jesus, Chief Shepherd,
Thank You for the eleven faithful apostles,
like pipers piping Your Gospel with courage and joy.
Make me bold to proclaim Your truth,
steadfast in prayer, and faithful in love.
May my life resound with the music of Your Kingdom.
Holy Apostles, pray for us.
Amen.
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
May the apostles’ joyful witness inspire you today!
Tomorrow: Twelve Drummers Drumming.