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Christmas: From Pagan Roots to Global Tradition - Christmas originated as a Christian holiday, but early followers didnt celebrate it. The date was set in the fourth century, possibly linking to pagan festivals. Over time, it evolved from rowdy feasts to cozy family gatherings, influenced by German customs. Santa Claus is based on Saint Nicholas, and Christmas traditions vary worldwide. Today, Christmas is a global celebration blending faith, family, and fun.

David Walliams, renowned British childrens author and comedian, faces backlash after HarperCollins drops him amidst allegations of inappropriate behavior. Despite his denial and successful career, including bestselling books and BBC adaptations, the publisher stands firm, citing employee wellbeing. Walliams seeks legal counsel, leaving fans uncertain about his future works.

Pope Leo the Fourteenth convenes cardinals for a consistory, marking the start of his pontificate. After wrapping up Pope Franciss Holy Year, Leo focuses on his own plans, gathering all cardinals for advice and consultation. This approach differs from Franciss smaller inner circle, signaling a broader input strategy. The meetings aim to support Leo in leading the global church, with eyes on the potential impact on the churchs future direction.

This Morning co-hosts Maria Tsantsarova and Zlatimir Yochev received unexpected news of their departure from the political talk show, amidst Bulgarias ongoing political turmoil. Supporters rallied outside bTV headquarters, expressing solidarity. bTV denied firings, suggesting new programming ideas, but concerns about media freedom persist, with Bulgaria ranking low in Reporters Without Borders index.

Hawkeye Strike: U.S. launches air and missile attacks on ISIS targets in Syria, following the deaths of two American soldiers. Over seventy targets hit, using F-fifteen, A-ten aircraft, and High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems. Operation named after fallen soldiers and civilian interpreter. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth clarifies as a declaration of vengeance, not a war. Recent operations resulted in fourteen insurgents killed and one hundred nineteen captured. Strikes ongoing, with a determined and prolonged response.

UN-backed organization declares end to Gaza famine, but food insecurity remains high; warning of potential relapse into famine if conflict resumes.

Justice Departments Epstein Document Release Falls Short, Leaving Many Questions Unanswered The Justice Departments recent release of documents related to the federal investigation into Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell has been criticized for lacking key financial records, internal memos, and important materials from searches of Epsteins homes. Despite being legally required to release all documents by last Friday, the materials made public represent only a small fraction of the total evidence, which exceeds three hundred gigabytes of data and physical items. The limited release has caused frustration among those seeking full transparency. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche has promised that more documents will be produced by the end of the year, but no specific timeline has been provided. Notable items in the recent document dump include a photograph of former President Bill Clinton and videos of police interviews from the two thousand five investigation of Epstein in Florida. Many lawmakers and advocates have expressed dismay, urging for a clear timeline for all remaining documents.

Tragic Russian Missile Strike in Odesa: Eight Dead, Twenty-Seven Injured; Ukrainian Counter-Attacks Target Russian Warship and Oil Platform