Media asked for more 'good' news

Sheilagh Kesting portrayed journalists as modern-day angels

The media could bring hope to the world by reporting more good news stories, the most senior figure in the Church of Scotland has said.

The Right Reverend Sheilagh Kesting, the Moderator of the General Assembly, said journalists could be the angels of a modern-day nativity.

She made her comments in a Christmas sermon at Greyfriars Church, Edinburgh.

She recalled a conversation with a journalist who retold the Christmas story in a contemporary fashion.

She said: "For in telling us what is happening in the world... do they not also... the best ones anyway, cast a light on the often little acts of bravery and selflessness that speak of love and hope and dignity that defy the crushing effects of poverty, violence and despair.

"We are gifts of God to the world, each one of us, capable of making a difference, however small, as together we broadcast the growth of hope through justice and peace and goodwill to all people on earth until that is what becomes the norm."