Have a merry debt-free Christmas says church
 You don't have to get into debt in order to enjoy Christmas is the message the Church of England in Norfolk and Waveney is aiming to convey with a new poster campaign.
Posters and car stickers have been sent to all 645 churches in the Diocese of Norwich encouraging all those who see them on church noticeboards and car windows to reflect on the fact that the best things in life are free
"All around us we're hearing about cutbacks and the recession - and many families are worried about getting into debt this Christmas," said the Revd Jan McFarlane, spokesperson for the Diocese of Norwich.
"We recognise that many parents feel under pressure to buy expensive presents at Christmas but the message we want to convey is that the best thing you can give your friends and family at Christmas is yourself - your presence and the knowledge of your love for them. A small gift given with love and hugs is a million times better than an expensive gift given in an atmosphere of worry and concern about debt, which can lead to arguments and great unhappiness.
“The best things in life - like love - are free and Christmas is the ideal time to reflect on that. We're hoping that the car stickers will act as a mini 'Thought for the Day' for those caught up in Christmas shopping traffic jams."
The Church of England has set up a section on its national website - A Matter of Life and Debt - which contains useful advice for those worried about debt; advice for clergy helping families who are concerned and a prayer for those worried about their financial situation.
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