JERUSALEM - Israel has made all arrangements to provide easy access to its religious places and ensure full security of around 90,000 tourists who are expected to visit the country on Christmas this year.

VATICAN CITY - Pope Benedict XVI led the Vatican's Christmas celebrations late Friday with the traditional midnight Mass, which began amid tightened security measures following last year's intrusion by a mentally disturbed woman.

BETHLEHEM - Thousands of Christian faithful from around the world converged Friday on Bethlehem to celebrate Christmas in the town where, according to the Biblical account, Jesus was born.

MUMBAI - Thousands of worshippers gathered in gaily decorated churches across Mumbai at midnight Friday to usher in Christmas.

VATICAN CITY - Pope Benedict XVI was Friday set to lead the Vatican's Christmas festivities by celebrating the traditional midnight Mass.