The Princess of Wales has called on the nation to reach out to one another with "generosity of heart, understanding and hope" during this festive season, in a deeply personal message ahead of her annual Christmas carol concert.
A Message of Compassion and Connection
In her written address, which will be given to guests attending the 'Together at Christmas' service at Westminster Abbey on Friday, Catherine spoke movingly about the importance of community. She highlighted the need to check in on loved ones and friends, "at a time when life can sometimes feel fragmented or uncertain".
The future Queen shared her vision of how the festive season and a sense of community are intertwined, poetically noting they are "just as the roots of trees share strength beneath the soil, unseen but vital". Her message champions the themes of love, compassion and connection that underpin this year's event, now in its fifth successful year.
Star-Studded Concert for Community Heroes
The Princess will welcome 1,600 dedicated community volunteers and stalwarts to the historic abbey for the special service. The event, spearheaded by Catherine and supported by The Royal Foundation, aims to celebrate the invisible bonds that unite people.
Guests will be treated to a programme of beloved carols from the world-renowned Westminster Abbey choir. They will be joined by an array of musical talent including actor Hannah Waddingham, British singers Katie Melua, Dan Smith, and Griff, as well as the Cornish folk group Fisherman's Friends. Young performers from North London's Platinum Performing Arts will also give a special performance.
Poignant readings linked to the evening's core themes will be delivered by a host of famous names. These include The Prince of Wales, Kate Winslet, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Babatunde Aléshé and Joe Locke.
The Quiet Power of Simple Acts of Care
In her message, the Princess, who has been continuing her recovery from cancer treatment, reflected on the essence of Christmas. She described it as a time that speaks of "love taking form in the simplest, most human ways".
"Not in sentimental or grand gestures, but gentle ones. A moment of listening, a word of comfort, a friendly conversation, a helping hand, presence," she wrote. "These simple acts of care might seem small, but they contribute to the beautiful tapestry of life to which we all belong."
She urged people to remember the impact of their actions during the festive rush, stating: "There is a softness to the season that reminds us of something easy to forget; that what we do matters. Our words, our choices, and even the ways we look out for one another - they ripple outward, touching lives we may never see."
The Princess directly thanked the guests for their service, saying: "The time, care and compassion you give, often quietly and unspoken, and without any expectation or recognition, make an extraordinary difference to the lives of others." She concluded by wishing everyone a "very Happy Christmas" surrounded by love and care.
A National Celebration Broadcast Across the UK
The service at Westminster Abbey is just the centrepiece of a wider national celebration. Kensington Palace confirmed that 15 community carol services, involving nearly 6,000 people, will be held across the UK throughout December. Hosted by Lord Lieutenants and supported by The Royal Foundation, these local events will mirror the themes of the Abbey service.
The main event will be broadcast in a special programme titled 'Royal Carols: Together At Christmas'. It will air on ITV1 and ITVX on Christmas Eve, with a repeat on Christmas Day morning. The broadcast, co-produced by BBC Studios Events and The Royal Foundation, will feature films showcasing stories of compassion from around the country.
In a sustainable gesture, the congregational candles used in Westminster Abbey will afterwards be donated to the Church Candle Challenge in Prestbury, Cheshire, for recycling.
