It will happen in a few weeks
Catherine, Princess of Wales’ yearly carol service will honour “love in all its forms” this year. The 43-year-old royal will present her fifth yearly Together at Christmas event at Westminster Abbey in London on December 5, featuring readings from celebrities including Kate Winslet, Hannah Waddingham, and Chiwetel Ejiofor, whilst Bastille’s lead singer Dan Smith will take to the stage.
Kensington Palace announced: “Combining traditional and modern elements to encompass people of all faiths and none, the service will see the world-renowned Westminster Abbey choir sing some of the nation’s most beloved carols, alongside musical performances and readings by guests including Hannah Waddingham, Dan Smith, Kate Winslet and Chiwetel Ejiofor.
“The Service will also showcase stories of some of the incredible guests in the congregation, who are leading by example and helping to create a more connected society.
“This year, the Service will bring people together to celebrate love in all its forms – whether it’s love within families, through friendships, across communities or even through powerful moments of connection with strangers.
“In a world that can often feel fragmented and disconnected, love is the force that reconnects us all – spanning generations, communities, cultures and faiths.”
The event – which receives backing from The Royal Foundation – will also emphasise the “power of togetherness”.
The statement continued: “As we approach the Christmas season, we are reminded of the power of togetherness. The evening will highlight the transformative power of investing in one another with compassion, presence and joy.”
Catherine “wanted to recognise and thank the many people around the country who are acting with love in their communities, contributing to a more cohesive and connected society”, and the congregation of 1,600 will have dedicated their time or volunteered with others, launched initiatives to unite their communities or shown kindness and empathy to those around them.
Senior royals will also be present, alongside “recognisable” faces who have demonstrated love to nurture compassion and unity. Prior to guests entering Westminster Abbey, they will listen to music from young performers from Future Talent in honour of Katharine, the Duchess of Kent, who passed away in September aged 92 and co-founded the charity to support musically-gifted children from disadvantaged backgrounds.
The Royal Horticultural Society are providing wreaths crafted with their ambassadors and school children for display inside the Abbey, and horticulturist Jamie Butterworth will produce a special festive display outside of the venue to emphasise the significance of nature.
Alongside the main Together at Christmas service – which will be recorded for broadcast on ITV1 and ITVX – 15 other community carol services will be held around the UK.
