Kate Middleton has shared a moving message ahead of this year’s Together at Christmas carol service.
In a touching letter released ahead of the service this Friday, the Princess of Wales has reflected on the transformative power of love and kindness, even in life’s most challenging moments:
“It is this love which is the greatest gift we can receive,” Kate writes. “Not just at Christmas, but every day of our lives. Love is the light that can shine bright, even in our darkest times.”
The letter, which will be given to guests, begins with the Princess extending her “heartfelt thanks” to attendees for their compassion and dedication to supporting others.
It’s clear this message comes from a personal place, shaped by Kate’s own health struggles this year.
Her experiences have also inspired the theme of this year’s concert, love and empathy. The letter beautifully captures those values. In one poignant excerpt, Kate reflects:
Christmas is one of my favourite times of the year. It is a time for celebration and joy, but it also gives us the opportunity to slow down and reflect on the deeper things that connect us all. It is when we stop and take ourselves away from the pressures of daily life, that we find the space to live our lives with an open heart, with love, kindness and forgiveness – so much of what the Christmas spirit is all about.
This year’s Together At Christmas honours individuals across the UK who have supported others through tough times. A Kensington Palace spokesperson explained:
The service will provide a moment to reflect on the importance of love and empathy and how much we need each other, especially in the most difficult times of our lives.
Kate’s letter also emphasises the importance of the Christmas story, particularly its enduring message of love:
The Christmas story encourages us to consider the experiences and feelings of others. It also reflects our own vulnerabilities and reminds us of the importance of giving and receiving empathy, as well as just how much we need each other in spite of our differences. Above all else, it encourages us to turn to love, not fear. The love that we show ourselves and the love we show others. Love that listens with empathy, love that is kind and understanding, love that is forgiving, and love that brings joy and hope.
The Princess concludes with a touching tribute to the individuals being honoured at the carol service:
Across the United Kingdom, there are so many inspiring people embracing those in need. They have provided comfort, counsel, and connection, and above all else they have shown that love unites and strengthens us all.
This Carol Service is a heartfelt celebration of every one of you, and a reminder that at Christmas, and throughout the year, we must all shine for each other. Because in times of joy and sadness, we are all each other’s light.
I wish you and your loved ones a very Merry Christmas.
Here’s the letter in full:
William and Kate shared the letter on their official social media accounts yesterday evening. Alongside images of the letter, the post read:
A special letter, reflecting on the importance of love, empathy and how much we need one another in the most difficult times. This will be given to each of the guests at the Together at Christmas Carol Service at Westminster Abbey and the fifteen Community Carol Services across the country, thanking those attending for all they do for others.
Together at Christmas will be filmed on Friday (December 6th) and broadcast on ITV1 and streamed on ITVX on Christmas Eve.
This will be Kate’s fourth annual Christmas concert, and will celebrate community heroes nominated by charities associated with the royal family and by lord lieutenants representing counties nationwide.
Supported by the Royal Foundation, the service will host approximately 1,600 guests, including members of the Royal Family and individuals recognised for their acts of kindness, volunteer work, and dedication to others. This year’s musical performances will include Paloma Faith, Olivia Dean, and Gregory Porter.
The “Together at Christmas” carol service, launched in 2021, is quickly becoming a cherished tradition. The inaugural event celebrated individuals and organisations who went above and beyond to support their communities during the COVID-19 pandemic. Each year since, the service has brought together community heroes, frontline workers, volunteers, and members of the royal family to recognise exceptional acts of kindness and compassion.
