In a personal message for guests at the Together at Christmas event at Westminster Abbey on Friday, the princess spoke of the importance of checking in on loved ones and friends “at a time when life can sometimes feel fragmented or uncertain”.
The Princess of Wales has urged the nation to come together “with generosity of heart, understanding and hope” amid testing times as prepares to host her annual Christmas carol concert for good causes.
In a personal message for guests at the Together at Christmas event at Westminster Abbey on Friday, the princess spoke of the importance of checking in on loved ones and friends “at a time when life can sometimes feel fragmented or uncertain”.
As part of this year’s themes of ‘love, compassion and connection’, the future queen will welcome 1,600 community stalwarts to the concert, now in its fifth year.
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The princess, who is continuing her recovery from cancer treatment last year, has previously spoken of the power of immersing herself in nature as part of her healing process.
In her message, Kate shared her vision of community and the festive season being intertwined “just as the roots of trees share strength beneath the soil, unseen but vital”.
The world-renowned Westminster Abbey choir will sing some of the nation’s most beloved carols, alongside musical performances from actor Hannah Waddingham, British singers Katie Melua, Dan Smith, and Griff, as well as Cornish folk music group, Fisherman’s Friends. Guests will also enjoy a special performance by young performers from Platinum Performing Arts, an organisation based in the heart of the community in Edmonton, North London.
During the service, poignant readings linked to the theme of love, compassion and connection will be delivered by speakers including the Prince of Wales, Kate Winslet, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Babatunde Aléshé and Joe Locke, whose reading will be accompanied by pianist Paul Gladstone Reid.
In her message which will be distributed to the guests from across the UK who dedicated or volunteered their time helping charities or community groups, the princess said: “At its heart, Christmas 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. These simple acts of care might seem small, but they contribute to the beautiful tapestry of life to which we all belong.
“Christmas is a time that reminds us how deeply our lives are woven together. Just as the roots of trees share strength beneath the soil, unseen but vital, so too do we. We are drawn by an instinctive pull towards belonging and connection.”
Kate also urged people to slow down amid the rush of Christmas, because our words and actions matter to others. She said: “Even with all the rushing around and familiar traditions, there is a quieter sense of what it calls out in us. 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.
“At a time when life can sometimes feel fragmented or uncertain, the Christmas season invites us to remember the power of reaching out to one another with generosity of heart, understanding and hope.
“This Carol Service offers a moment of collective togetherness, a chance to celebrate the spirit of community and service, and to honour the visible and invisible bonds that unite us all. 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.
“As the year draws to a close, I hope this season brings you moments of peace and clarity, and that you too, feel surrounded by the same love and care that you offer so freely. Thank you for the warmth you have given and the kindness you have shown, and the quiet constant light you bring to others. Wishing you a very Happy Christmas.”
Spearheaded by the Princess, and supported by The Royal Foundation, the service will “bring people together to celebrate love in all its forms – whether it’s love within families, through friendships, across communities, or powerful moments of kindness between strangers”, Kensington Palace said.
The event will be broadcast as part of Royal Carols: Together At Christmas, a special programme airing on ITV1 and ITVX on Christmas Eve with a repeat showing on Christmas Day morning.
The broadcast, co-produced by BBC Studios Events and The Royal Foundation, will feature two special films which bring to life the stories of people and organisations who have shown love, joy and compassion to others in their times of need.
Following the service, congregational candles from Westminster Abbey will be donated to the Church Candle Challenge, a recycling candle initiative based in St. Peter’s Church in Prestbury, Cheshire.
Alongside the service at Westminster Abbey, 15 community carol services involving nearly 6,000 people will be taking place around the UK across December to provide a moment for people to come together and celebrate community work during the festive season.
Hosted by Lord Lieutenants, and supported by The Royal Foundation, these events will be tailored to their local communities whilst also including elements of the Westminster Abbey service.
