The Archbishop of York, Dr. John Sentamu is to post 24 messages online in preparation for the birthday of Jesus, our Lord and Saviour. 

His online calendar will reveal a new message every day and this will include prayer, reflection, music, food, presents and the joy of Christmas.

The Archbishop said: "Advent is a time of hope and excitement, as we look forward to celebrating the birth of Jesus. God so loved the world that he sent his Son to be born as a baby and to live among us. That's what we're looking forward to during Advent. Love came down at Christmas. And that amazing gift demands a wholehearted response from us. I hope people will join me during Advent to reflect on what Christmas means to us as we approach this very important day"

In many countries Advent calendars are traditionally made from cardboard and contain a picture, gift or chocolate treat behind each door representing the days before Christmas day. The Archbishop's online calendar will be available from here. A message will be added daily from 1 December to 24 December.

ENDS