Cameron: 2013 'significant year for Christian faith'

2013 was a significant year for the Christian faith - a year that welcomed the Most Rev Justin Welby as the new Archbishop of Canterbury and saw His Holiness Pope Francis elected to lead the Roman Catholic Church.

Both have come in with exciting plans to rejuvenate their respective churches, which should inspire Christians around the world.

For me, this season is also a time to think about the meaning of Christmas - the birth of Jesus Christ and the hope that gives to millions.

In Handel's Messiah, these words from the Prophet Isaiah are brilliantly put to music 'His name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, the mighty God, the everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace'.

With peace in mind, I would like to say thank you to our brave servicewomen and men who are helping bring peace here and around the world; to their families who cannot be with them; and to all the dedicated men and women in the emergency and caring services who are working hard to support those in need this Christmas.

Have a peaceful Christmas - and a very happy New Year.