Omeed Jouyandé explains why Herod and “all Jerusalem” had good reason to be alarmed by the arrival of a group of Magi from Parthia. But their mission was not as Herod feared – and their faith and identity remains an inspiration for Iranian Christians today.

The Egyptian people are facing youth unemployment, widespread poverty, an unstable economy and continuing human rights violations. But Egypt is also home to the Middle East's largest Christian population – and despite violent attacks in recent years, the Egyptian Church is faithful and thriving.

Two special productions have been prepared for SAT-7 KIDS’ Christmas schedule. The crew visited a children’s cancer hospital in Cairo, Egypt to bring joy to the young patients. Another production offers children insight on Christ’s humble beginnings by filming in a manger.

Executive Assistant Annamaria shares what a Turkish Christmas is like: from the celebrations of churches in Istanbul to the general approach to Christian festivities from the wider population.

This Christmas Eve, SAT-7 KIDS will not only tell children the nativity story, it will show them a living example of Jesus’ heavenly peace. Viewers will meet three children who have all endured great hardship but simply radiate pure joy.

In preparation for SAT-7 Egypt’s Christmas programming production, SAT-7 staff and guests prove that the Spirit of Christmas is within hearts despite practical difficulties.

For believers in Turkey who are young in their faith, it is challenging to find worship songs that have not been translated – worship songs written in their mother tongue with which people can better connect.

Melis* is a SAT-7 TÜRK team member. She ensures that viewers are kept up to date with Christian news from Turkey and abroad. She is also expecting her first baby. Here, Melis shares her insights as a soon-to-be mother.