WHAT does a tasteless Christmas jumper have to do with what Christians celebrate? The Dean of Salisbury thinks he has the answer.

In his new book of meditations for Christmas and the New Year, Twelve Joys of Christmas, the Very Revd Nicholas Papadopulos offers a daily theme, a short reading, reflections and prayer to use throughout the season and beyond.

Commissioned by Church House Publishing, the book explores both the amazing and the amusing – from Christmas pudding to pantomime, from Boxing Day chutney to a bracing walk.

The Dean shares his love for many of the trappings and traditions associated with Christmas, and he explains why even tasteless Christmas jumpers have their part to play in helping us to understand the mystery and joy.

He said: “At Christmas in church…I like to talk about the things we never talk about…at Christmas in church – wonderful food, presents we don’t want, the panto.

“They’re all a part of how we celebrate Christmas, and I believe that they’re more than that. Even the most tasteless Christmas knitwear points us to the best news we’ll ever hear. That God is with us. For ever.”

Twelve Joys of Christmas is available to purchase from the gift shop at Salisbury Cathedral or online from Church House Publishing.