Kensington Palace has confirmed The Princess of Wales will host her fourth ‘Together at Christmas’ Carol Service at Westminster Abbey on 6th December. The service is becoming a staple in the royal calendar, often with a large number of royals in attendance.
Last year’s service marked the second time that George and Charlotte have attended the service, but the first time Louis has been seen in the Abbey.
Prince William and Kate with their children Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis at last year’s Christmas carol service at Westminster Abbey.
Kate’s appearance at the carol service will mark one of her few public engagements this year since announcing her cancer diagnosis in March. The Princess’ engagements this year have included Trooping the Colour to celebrate Charles’ birthday, meeting the families of the girls killed in Stockport and attending Wimbledon in the summer.
In a moving video message broadcast in September, the Princess said her journey with cancer isn’t over yet and her ‘path to healing and full recovery is long’ and she must take each day as it comes, but is ‘looking forward to being back at work and undertaking a few more public engagements in the coming months’.
The Prince of Wales also echoed a similar sentiment stating that this year had been ‘brutal’ and ‘the hardest year in my life’, with his father also receiving cancer treatment.
The Princess of Wales attending her Carol Service. (The Forward Trust Twitter)
Similar to previous ‘Together at Christmas’ carol services, this year’s festive event will also have a theme. Taking inspiration from the Christmas Story, Her Royal Highness is choosing to celebrate the many people supporting those in need – individuals who have inspired, counselled, comforted, and, above all else, shown that love is the greatest gift we can receive.
This year’s service will provide a moment to reflect upon the importance of love and empathy, and how much we need each other, especially in the most difficult times of our lives – perhaps inspired by her own recent experiences.
The event will shine a light on individuals from all over the UK who have shown love, kindness and empathy towards others in their communities, whether on a personal level with friends and family, through their work or as they selflessly give up their time through volunteering.
Prince William, Kate, Sophie, Zara and Mike Tindall taking part in a carol service at Westminster Abbey. The service will be broadcast on Christmas Eve.
Performances will include the world-renowned Westminster Abbey choir performing some of the nation’s most beloved carols, alongside musical performances by guests including Paloma Faith, Olivia Dean and Gregory Porter.
We will also hear stories of some of the incredible guests in the congregation, who have provided invaluable support across their communities.
“Together at Christmas’ will be filmed for broadcast, and has been developed and delivered in partnership with Westminster Abbey, as a co-production between The Royal Foundation and BBC Studios Events Productions.
The service will air as part of a special programme on ITV1 and ITVX on Christmas Eve.
