James Middleton praises 'incredible sister' Kate for 'powerful message' at Christmas carol service
James Middleton has paid tribute to his "incredible sister", the Princess of Wales, following her annual Together at Christmas carol service. This past year has seen Kate step back into public life after her cancer diagnosis and treatment, while King Charles is still continuing with his treatment.
The Princess of Wales, 42, hosted her fourth annual carol service at Westminster Abbey on December 6, and guests were given a memorable image for the Order of Service. It featured a touching illustration, which showed a group of friends walking together through the snow toward the famous Abbey. On the card was the "Together at Christmas" tagline with the quotes: "'How did I help?' 'You were by my side. Which was everything.'"
Sharing a photo of the pamphlet on Instagram, James praised his sister as he wrote: "'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.' A very powerful message from my incredible sister at special time of the year. Merry Christmas to you all."
READ MORE: Prince Louis breaks royal tradition with unusual move aged just six
READ MORE: Judy Finnigan in tears as she makes rare appearance at Kate Middleton's carol service
Kate also shared a heartfelt message ahead of her annual Christmas carol service, Together At Christmas. Despite a challenging year marked by health struggles and preventative chemotherapy treatment, the princess has made a few public appearances since her treatment ended in September.
Slowly returning to her Royal duties, Kate ensured she continued her Christmas tradition at Westminster Abbey. Looking stunning in a red coat with a large black bow on the collar and black buttons by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen, Kate was joined by her family for the concert. The event, which took place earlier this month and aired on BBC One on Tuesday, December 24. Ahead of the episode, the Prince and Princess of Wales shared a clip from the evening.
In a personal message, Kate said: "Across the United Kingdom, there are so many inspiring people embracing those in need. 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."
The caption alongside the touching video urged, "Join us on @ ITV and @ITVX for the Together at Christmas Carol Service at 7.30pm this evening. This service reflects upon the importance of love and empathy, and how much we need each other, especially in the most difficult times of our lives. Thank you to everyone who has been a part of this year's celebrations."
The star-studded event boasted a guest list including presenting icons Richard and Judy, Strictly's Amy Dowden, and TV favourite Lorraine Kelly. Delivering heartfelt readings were thespian Richard E Grant, Downton Abbey's Michelle Dockery, Sophie Okonedo of Hotel Rwanda fame, and Team GB's swimming hero, Adam Peaty.