The Diocese of Norwich has launched a new film to help people learn about the story of Christmas.
It comes as statistics show that 12pc of adults do not know the nativity story, and a third of children were unaware whose birthday the day celebrated.
With more people now recognising the start of the Christmas season through big store advertising campaigns, the diocese decided to launch a film to teach people about the true meaning of the day.
The Rt Rev Graham James, Bishop of Norwich, said: 'Everyone celebrates Christmas. Not everyone knows the story of Christmas, though they often think they do. So we need to tell it as vividly as possible in the language of today.'
The animated film retells the nativity story and is narrated by the bishop himself.
It depicts the story of Mary and Joseph's journey to Bethlehem, the birth of Jesus and the visiting shepherds and wise men. It has been made in a style that will appeal to both children and adults.
Churches and schools are being encouraged to share the film through their social media platforms, and to show the film in services, assemblies and RE classes in the run-up to Christmas.
The Venerable Jan McFarlane, Archdeacon of Norwich, said: 'For vast numbers of people Christ is still very much at the heart of Christmas, even if their knowledge is a little hazy.
'Our hope is this film will remind us of the wonder which lies at the very heart of Christmas in the form of a tiny infant born to teach us the power of unconditional love.'
Christmas cards, colouring sheets and bookmarks can also be ordered online by visiting www.dioceseofnorwich.org/christmas The film can be seen on the website or at www.edp24.co.uk
Are you celebrating Christmas in a special way this year? Call Luke Powell on 01603 772684.
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