The love, joy and peace of Christmas that we experience through our favourite carols was celebrated by the Rev Diana Hall on BBC Radio Scotland’s Thought For The Day this week.

“Whether it’s at a school assembly, a concert or a church service many of us will find ourselves singing carols this week,” said the Rector of St Anne’s in Dunbar, pictured right. “And anyone who knows, While Shepherds Watched, or We Three Kings of Orient Are carries with them part of the Christian story.

“For some, the moment we know it’s Christmas is when we hear a child singing Away in a Manger; for others it’s the soloist in Once in Royal David’s City.  My own favourite line comes from O Little Town of Bethlehem. When I hear the words ‘The hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight’ my spirits rise.

“Whatever it is that helps you to feel festive, may we all have a chance to experience a special moment this week when we know the love, joy and peace of Christmas.”

The full broadcast can be heard here at the 1 hour 21 minute mark.