Monday's top stories

24 Dec 2012

Looking to Christmas, religious and non-religious leaders have sent out messages of hope. Plus, we give you your Christmas Day weather forecast.

Annual Christmas messages

Catholic Cardinal George Pell has used his Christmas message to apologise to those who have been sexually abused at the hands of priests and teachers. Anglican Archbishop of Sydney, Dr Peter Jensen, has reminded Australians of the importance of reconciling with Indigenous people, and the Prime Minister and Opposition Leader have both made special mention of Australian troops serving overseas. Read the full story and watch the videos.

Prince Harry kills Taliban chief

His reputation as a playboy and party boy looks set to change as Prince Harry allegedly killed his first Taliban commander in late October. Proving very popular among his comrades, Prince Harry has been flying daily combat missions while on tour in Helmand. Perth Now has the story.

NRA says no

The National Rifle Association of America has ruled out support for greater regulation of firearms and ammunition even in the wake of one of the worst school massacres in the nation’s history, saying it won’t work. Watch the video and read the story on Yahoo news.

Airstrike in Syria outside bakery

More than 60 people have been killed in an airstrike outside a bakery in Halfaya. The UN’s envoy was just arriving in Damascus for talks with president Bashar al-Assad when the victims were killed. Read more.

Christmas weather forecast

Christmas is set to be balmy around the country with temperatures ranging from 19C in Hobart right up to 39C in Perth. A reminder to drink plenty of water and to stay sun-safe if you’re outside. Here are the forecasts around Australia, thanks to Weatherzone.

Wishing you all a Merry Christmas. Share your Christmas pictures, stories and presents on our Facebook page.