The Princess of Wales is set to host her annual Christmas carol service at Westminster Abbey on Friday, marking another milestone in her return to public life after undergoing cancer treatment. This year's concert will focus on celebrating the support people provide to each other, particularly during challenging times.
The princess, affectionately known as Kate, expressed gratitude to the 1,600 attendees for their efforts in assisting others within their communities. In a letter, she emphasized the importance of empathy and the need for human connection, especially in times of adversity.
Kate has been hosting the carol service since its inception in 2021, initially honoring the contributions of healthcare workers and emergency responders during the COVID-19 pandemic. Notably, she captivated the audience by playing the piano alongside Scottish singer Tom Walker in a moving performance dedicated to those affected by the pandemic.
The upcoming service will feature a cover image by British artist Charlie Mackesy, known for his work in promoting kindness and compassion through his book 'The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse.'
Both Kate and her husband, Prince William, have been candid about their cancer diagnoses this year, with Kate undergoing surgery and subsequent treatment. While Prince Charles returned to public duties after his diagnosis, Kate took more time to recover before resuming her official engagements.
The carol service will include musical performances by Gregory Porter and Paloma Faith, as well as readings on the theme of love and empathy by various notable figures. The event will be recorded for broadcast on Christmas Eve by ITV1 and its streaming service ITVX, allowing a wider audience to experience the festive celebration.
