Congratulations to the Pope...

For the stark reminder why I'm really not a fan of the Catholic church.

I'd make a more obvious and biting remark, but I'm trying to remain Christian about it.

And since we're trying to get into the Christmas spirit

Another chance to mention the greatest Christmas songs of all time. And, as usual, topping my list:

The Pogues and Kirsty MacColl - Fairytale of New York

Perfectly described on Paul Cornell's blog by Doctor Whoo writer Stephen Greenhorn as "Hope, despair, drunkeness, romanticism, regret, joy, cynicism, sentimentality - everything I associate with the season (plus the sublime Kirsty McColl) in four and half minutes of genius."

And what other Christmas song includes the lyrics "You scumbag, You Maggot, You cheap lousy faggot"?

None.

Not just one of the greatest Christmas songs ever but one of the greatest songs ever.

How about:

Jona Lewie - Stop the Cavalry

Another one that's not really a Christmas song at all, but actually an anti war protest song, but with a sprinkling of snow and that unforgettable horn section and sleigh bells it's transformers into one of the best seasonal tunes ever.

On a more traditional note:

Sinead O'Connor - Silent Night

An almost impossibly beautiful version of this German hymn.

Then there's:

Slade - Merry Christmas Everybody

The song that Noddy Holder considers his pension and is as part of the British festive activities as Christmas Pud and the Queen's Speech.