ONE of the downsides of modern communication is that we know all the bad things which happen around the world.

It’s not that it is bad to know, but it can leave us feeling depressed and helpless in the face of terrible events, most of which are beyond our control.

That’s why it is good to read the “Crediton Courier!”

There is so much to celebrate in our community and the “Courier” helps us to celebrate it.

Of course we should be concerned about bad things which happen elsewhere, and in church we often hold these situations in our prayers or indeed try to raise money or help in other ways.

But we should never underestimate the value of simple actions of kindness to our neighbours and initiatives in our own community that make life better for people.

The Christmas Tree Festival at Holy Cross has recently celebrated again the activities of many local groups which make life better, more richer and kinder for people of all ages and interests.

Christmas should be a festival of hope, love and peace.

The birth of Jesus was a sign that God cares deeply about the world and about how we live and treat each other.

He came to live among us, born in Bethlehem, and Christians believe that he is still among us, and that we can know him through his Spirit.

But whatever our belief we can all do something to foster peace, hope and love in our families and community and contribute to the joy of life for ourselves and others in 2017.

May I wish all “Courier” readers a very happy Christmas and new year.