Catherine's Christmas message of love in uncertain times

Catherine's Christmas message of love in uncertain times

The Princess of Wales has shared a Christmas message emphasizing the significance of kindness during times that can feel “fragmented or uncertain.” In a letter addressed to attendees of her carol concert at Westminster Abbey on Friday, Catherine highlighted the impact of quiet and compassionate acts. She wrote, “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.”

The concert welcomed 1,600 guests, including members of the Royal Family, volunteers, and individuals who have contributed to their local communities. The event featured traditional Christmas carols performed in the beautifully decorated Abbey, along with readings and musical presentations by artists such as Hannah Waddingham and Kate Winslet.

In her message, the Princess reflected on the true meaning of Christmas, noting, “At its heart, Christmas speaks of love taking form in the simplest, most human ways.” She continued, “Not in sentimental or grand gestures, but gentle ones. A moment of listening, a word of comfort, a friendly conversation, a helping hand, presence.” This comes soon after Catherine delivered her first public speech in two years, during her ongoing recovery following a cancer diagnosis and chemotherapy.

As guests gathered outside Westminster Abbey, they were entertained by performances from young musicians supported by the Future Talent charity, an organization co-founded by the late Duchess of Kent, who passed away earlier this year. The duchess had been dedicated to expanding access to music education for children from disadvantaged backgrounds. Among those attending were Anna and Jonathan Cordiner, whose daughter died from a brain tumour and who established Kayleigh’s Wee Stars, a charity supporting families facing terminal childhood illnesses. The event also included Saphia Turner, a nine-year-old recognized as the BBC’s Make a Difference Young Hero Award winner, who raises funds for food banks through her art and sponsored challenges.

In a related development on Tuesday, the Public Accounts Committee disclosed details about royal leases, including that of Prince William and Catherine’s new residence, Forest Lodge in Windsor. It was revealed the couple holds a 20-year lease from the Crown Estate and pays market rent based on independent valuations. The public spending watchdog is set to launch an inquiry next year regarding the Crown Estate and royal properties amid questions surrounding arrangements at Royal Lodge involving Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor

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