DEAN of Salisbury Nick Papadopoulos has delivered a Christmas message mixing personal anecdote with theological reflection, using a visit to Jerusalem and a homemade festive snack as a metaphor for the significance of Christmas.

Speaking from a kitchen setting, Papadopoulos recalled an Easter trip to Jerusalem earlier this year, where he revisited a favourite shop on Salah Aline Street known for grinding coffee and selling spices and nuts.

Inspired by savoury nuts he bought there, he explained that he had attempted to recreate the recipe for Christmas Day, describing them as “very, very moreish” and ideal for sharing while a festive meal is being prepared.

However, the light-hearted introduction soon gave way to a deeper reflection on the Christmas story. Papadopoulos warned against treating the Nativity as something secondary or merely symbolic.

“When we tell the Christmas story… we have to be careful not to treat the story and its characters as the biblical equivalent of a salty snack,” he said, stressing that the shepherds, angels, wise men and even the infant Jesus are not simply preludes to a more important narrative later in Christ’s life.

Instead, he emphasised that Christmas reveals the nature of God fully and directly.

“At Christmas, we see God as God is in the child in the manger,” he said, describing a God who is “utterly unconcerned about his own status” and “undefended”, pouring himself out in love.

Papadopoulos rejected the idea of Christmas as a “trailer” or “appetiser” to the rest of the Christian story, calling it “the main course with all the trimmings”.

He said the response of those present at the Nativity – Mary, Joseph, the shepherds and the wise men – was worship, recognising that they were already witnessing the fullness of God’s action.

Concluding his message, the dean wished listeners a joyful celebration, encouraging them to enjoy good food, time with loved ones and a renewed awareness of God’s love.

“I hope more than anything that you know the love of God for you this Christmas time,” he said, before wishing everyone “a holy, blessed, and joyous Christmas”, as church bells rang to close the message.

Watch the full video ‘A Message from The Dean of Salisbury – Christmas 2025’  here.