Magazine #30: Christmas 2025

🎵 Calypso Carol

The True Meaning of Christmas

Christmas history and meaning examined; Not celebrated in early church; Jesus’ birth not in December; Celebration dates from 336 AD.

Nativity Practice Goes Off Script

A school nativity play rehearsal goes chaotic, with children misbehaving despite a school inspector watching, leading to the inspector leaving early.

A Visit from the Grandchildren

Children’s visit disrupts household; Chaos ensues as grandchildren arrive; Grandparents look forward to their departure.

Reading from ‘A Child’s Christmas in Wales’

A child recalls waiting for cats with his friend Jim on Christmas Eve in Mrs. Protheroe’s garden. They ignore Mrs. Protheroe’s cries for help while throwing snowballs at imaginary cats. Upon entering the house, they find smoke pouring out of the dining room and discover Mr. Protheroe calmly saying ‘A fine Christmas’.

Winter Wildlife in the Wolds

Rivers in Cotswold region flooded due to heavy rain, leaving behind mud and debris, also revealing birds’ nests in hedgerows; Magpies stole eggs from nearby poultry; Song thrushes provided early morning comfort during dark winter days.

The Tradition of Nuts at Christmas

Nuts have been a Christmas tradition since ancient times. Its popularity stemmed from both pagan and Christian beliefs, later popularized by Victorian England. Modern nutcrackers have made nuts a staple again.

Remembering the 1914 Christmas Truce

In an unprecedented act during WWI, British and German soldiers declared an unofficial Christmas truce on the Western Front in 1914. Meeting in no-man’s-land, they exchanged gifts, sang carols, and buried their dead together before resuming battle. Despite its brevity, this truce remains a symbol of humanity amidst carnage.

Jill Reads Her Poem about Ernie the Cat

Jill reads her nostalgic poem about Ernie the cat, who chewed through Christmas tree lights. The poem recounts the dismay of finding the tree dark on Christmas morning, with Ernie undisturbed beneath it. Ernie’s playful mischief is revealed as the cause.

Quirky Christmas Traditions from Around the World

Christmas traditions vary globally; in Japan, families enjoy fried chicken for Christmas, while Norwegians hide broomsticks from witches. Sweden’s Galve town erects a 50-foot straw goat, and Romans celebrate with goat-masked men.

The Pride and Humility of the King’s Camels

A humorous take on the Three Kings’ journey, imagining them on wheel transport instead of camels; a poem ‘Camels of the Kings’ was inspired by this whimsical image; the camels are described in lavish detail, conveying their superiority and grandeur

❓ Quiz - Questions

A general knowledge quiz for listeners to enjoy at home.

Oh Little Town of Bethlehem

A musical performance of ‘O Little Town of Bethlehem’ by Whitneytown Band and St. Mary’s Church congregation.

The Story Behind ‘O Little Town of Bethlehem’

The origins and melodies of ‘O Little Town of Bethlehem’ explored, with Brooks and Redner composing the well-known US version, while ‘Forest Green’ is used in the UK.

The Birth of Jesus in Bethlehem

The birth of Jesus in Bethlehem was announced by an angel to Mary; Mary and Joseph travelled to Bethlehem for the census and found shelter in a stable where Jesus was born.

A Set of Christmas Jokes

A set of Christmas jokes entertains listeners; Fourteen humorous jokes covering various themes were shared; Laughter ensued throughout the jokes.

Rats by M.R. James

A ghost story from M.R. James about an inn in Suffolk haunted by a highwayman’s spirit. The tale unfolds when a guest encounters signs of its presence. The guest ultimately discovers the origin of the haunting but keeps silent out of respect for the landlord.

❓ Quiz - Answers

Here are the answers to this week’s quiz — how did you do?

👋 Goodbye!

The closing sign-off, including volunteer credits and listener information.

🎵 Oh Holy Night

A talking newspaper reader presents a poetic rendering of the Christmas carol ‘Oh Holy Night’; The performance showcases the singer’s interpretation of the song’s themes of redemption and joy; Listeners are encouraged to enjoy the music alongside the poignant verse.