Much of what is published in this newspaper and other professional media that practice true journalism would not be considered “good news” to all people, because, as George Orwell wrote: “Journalism is printing what someone else does not want printed: everything else is public relations.”

Of course some of what we print is public relations, but informing the people of the Copper Country of news they need to know about their government and reporting what is happening in their communities will continue to be our priority.

There is, however, an epic good-news story celebrated by much of the human race for more than 2,000 years, promoting peace and goodwill among the human species, with the magic of its miracle celebrated during each anniversary restoring faith in redemption and salvation and promoting generosity reminding us of the greatest gift we can ever receive was given with unconditional love.

The breaking news was first announced to shepherds abiding with their flocks during that silent and holy night so long, long ago by an angel: “…I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you” — with “you” including not just those shepherds but everyone born before or who has read those words since — “is born in the the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord.”

Although much of the world is ignorant or lacks faith in this gift, this news has been effectively accepted by everyone. Anyone who considers this time to be the end of (the year of our Lord) 2018 concedes this good news.

Even though the nature of the news happening in the secular world tends to be negative and at best neutral, celebrating the anniversary of the birth of Jesus each year is an uplifting story of good news.