Princess of Wales spreads festive cheer with heartfelt Christmas message

Princess Catherine has captivated the nation with her heartfelt Christmas message as the countdown to the annual Christmas carol concert at Westminster Abbey begins.

On Saturday, December 16 Kensington Palace released a message from the Princess of Wales ahead of her highly-anticipated third annual Christmas carol concert.

While the festive gathering unfolded on December 8, viewers are in for a treat as the event is set to grace the television screens on ITV on Christmas Eve. Catherine shared a preview of the festive spectacle, that left royal fans eager for the joyous celebration that awaits.

“Welcome to our third carol service at Westminster Abbey,” she began.

“Christmas is a time when we come together and celebrate the birth of a newborn baby.

“The arrival of every baby is a precious and momentous time, it brings us together to reflect on  new beginnings and brings hope for the future.

“Throughout our earliest interactions, relationships and experiences, with those who love us, even before we are born, we lay the foundations to so much of what that future will depend on. But only by valuing and supporting the vital role of the adults in a child’s world can we hope to make a difference.

“And so tonight’s guests have been invited in recognition of their support of our youngest children, as we shine a spotlight on the critical role they play in nurturing and raising the future generation. From parents and carers, to early educators, midwives, health visitors and community volunteers, thank you for all you do in helping the very youngest members of our communities, feel safe, valued and loved.

“This is not just making a difference to children today, it will go on to shape a happier, healthier, fairer world in the future.

“I do hope you enjoy this evening and I wish you all a very Merry Christmas.”

Together at Christmas🎄✨

The Princess of Wales returns to host a special Christmas Carol Service in Westminster Abbey.

Watch Royal Carols: Together at Christmas on @ITV and @ITVX at 7.45pm this Christmas Eve! pic.twitter.com/HQyuydWAbr

— ITV (@ITV) December 8, 2023

For this year’s festive gathering, Princess Catherine played the role of a gracious host, surrounded by her cherished family members, including the delightful trio of Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis. Adorned in a stunning winter white ensemble, the royal matriarch presided over the Christmas carol concert.

This year’s spectacle boasted stellar performances from the renowned Westminster Abbey choir, as well as music sensations such as Adam Lambert, Beverley Knight, Jacob Collier, Freya Ridings, and James Bay.

Prince William graced the congregation with a poignant reading, accompanied by contributions from Micheal Ward, Emma Willis, Roman Kemp, and the venerable Jim Broadbent.

A specially commissioned poem by Children’s Laureate Joseph Coelho was beautifully delivered by Leonie Elliott, completing the festive atmosphere, all culminating in an unforgettable evening that resonated with the true spirit of the season.

In years past, Princess Catherine has transformed the Christmas carol concert into a poignant tribute, honouring the memory of the late Queen Elizabeth and shining a spotlight on the unsung heroes who tirelessly navigated the challenges of the global pandemic.

In 2021, Catherine surprised those in attendance with her very first public performance on the piano, playing For Those Who Can’t Be Here with Scottish singer Tom Walker for the carols event.

People reported that Catherine had found great solace and “comfort” in playing the piano, particularly during the pandemic, as she used to play as a child.