Talking points

Pope Francis celebrates his first midnight mass at the Vatican, nine months after the Argentinian took over as the leader of the world's 1.2 billion Catholics. Many believe that the 77-year-old pontiff is living up to the ideals of his namesake, Saint Francis of Assisi, by reaching out to the poor and destitute. Francis, who has rejected many of the trappings of office, as widely praised in November for embracing a man disfigured with boils in St Peter's Square and he is regarded as having brought a sense of humility and energy back to the papacy.

The Christmas Concert in the Park - Party at Tamar kicks off at 4.30pm. The renowned Hong Kong Police Band will taking centre stage with music director Superintendent James Leung leading the musicians, including a pipe performance of the popular hymn Amazing Grace. Other concert highlights will include a performance by soprano Yuki Ip of The Holy City while flautist Sibei Weng will play Fantaisie brillante sur Carmen. Admission is free.