Father Roger Kelly explains the importance of animals in the Nativity Story

Each year on Christmas morning many people congregate at their closest church to celebrate the birth of Christ. However at The Anglican Church of St James the Great in East St Kilda there are a few additions.

Father Roger Kelly extends an invitation to all people to attend with their companion animals. All creatures receive a special blessing at the Christmas morning celebration as well as have a photo opportunity.

Click here to listen to Father Kelly tell the HDC what to expect.

Rizi Timane - A Great Mix of Christianity and Homosexuality

Rizi Timane was brought up in a Christian family and since realising she was gay at the age of 8, has faced challenges reconciling her sexuality with her religion. Her family never accepted her as gay and even tried an exorcism to "cure her gayness". She faced many battles but has come out the other side with a message of strength for many people around the world who struggle with the same issue.

Rizi Timane's message is clear. God loves you, no matter what your sexuality, and the damning references to homosexuality do not refer to the way most practice gay love today. She uses her music to share this message and her latest album boasts songs that command celebration and issue strength. Rizi is truly a gift from God for those who are made to feel unwelcome by their families, communities and churches.

Click here to hear the interview and Rizi Timane's track "Come Out".

You can find out all about Rizi Timane at http://www.rizigospel.com/