Christmas is one of the defining points of the year, for believers and non-believers alike. Archbishop Stephen Cottrell and Biblical scholar Dr Paula Gooder explore the Advent themes that turn our thoughts to eternity and the real meaning of our lives, and the Christmas stories themselves: what Jesus’ birth means, how the world changes because of it, why Christmas is much more hopeful but also darker than we may think, and why it’s all about love.

Stephen Cottrell is the Archbishop of York and the author of more than 20 books, including 'Walking Backwards to Christmas' and 'Let it Slow: An Advent Calendar with a Difference'. His most recent is 'Dear England', a letter to the country on why the Christian narrative still makes sense today.

Paula Gooder is a renowned Biblical scholar and theologian, the Chancellor of St Paul’s Cathedral and the author of numerous academic and popular books including 'Journey to the Manger: Exploring the Birth of Jesus' and 'The Meaning is in the Waiting: The Spirit of Advent'.