Whatever you believe in when it comes to the birth of Christ, even if you believe in nothing at all, no one can doubt the personal force of Jesus, says Clive James.

A British tourist has discovered almost 300 gold coins dating from the 7th Century at a dig just outside Jerusalem's Old City.

It's the time of year when news of high-achieving children, exotic holidays and pay rises wriggle through letter-boxes inside a Christmas card. So is the annual round-robin letter a welcome update from friends or an unsolicited irritation?

Israeli police have to restore order at one of Christianity's holiest sites after a brawl breaks out between monks in Jerusalem.

A delegation begins a visit to Rome in an effort to persuade the Pope to endorse what they say are the shared origins of the world's two biggest religions.

A row between two sects is holding up desperately-needed repair work at one of Christianity's holiest sites - the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, reports the BBC's Wyre Davies.

Aakash Chopra on his teammate Sachin Tendulkar, holder of the record for the most runs scored by a batsman in Test cricket.

A quick guide to the authors who have made it onto this year's Booker shortlist.

Campaigners fighting a planned eco-town near Arundel hand a petition to Downing Street.

Cardiff manager Dave Jones admits he had a face-to-face disagreement with Wales boss John Toshack over Paul Parry.

Captain Darren Purse says Cardiff's players and fans will stand by Paul Parry over his Wales retirement.

Paul Parry has been "vilified and crucified" over his decision to walk out on Wales, according to Cardiff boss Dave Jones.

Aberdeen manager Jimmy Calderwood insisted his side were worth their 1-1 draw with Rangers at Pittodrie.

China's Wang Fen and Qin Kai add yet another gold to the host's Olympic tally with dominant a display in the men's synchronised springboard diving.

England's Lee Westwood complains about the set-up of Oakland Hills course at the USPGA Championship after shooting a seven over par 77 in the opening round.

Pietersen's appointment will have surprised many - but not himself

England make a vital late breakthrough as South Africa finish on 38-1 at stumps on day one of the third Test at Edgbaston.

A town's near 30-year ban on Monty Python's Life of Brian is backed by the local vicar, who says the film pokes fun at Jesus.

The mayor of Aberystwyth, who featured in Monty Python's Life of Brian, wants a 30-year ban on the film lifted.

BBC political correspondent Iain Watson examines why Nick Clegg wants to position himself as a tax cutter.