Princess of Wales speaks of love in the ‘darkest times’ ahead of Christmas carol concert
The Princess of Wales has told how love shines bright “even in our darkest times” ahead of her annual Christmas carol concert, which will see her joined by fellow cancer sufferer Sir Chris Hoy and the young survivors of the Southport attack.
The Princess has written a personal letter to those invited to the Westminster Abbey service in which she reflects upon the story of Christmas and how it “encourages us to turn to love, not fear”.
She said that “love is the greatest gift we can receive”.
Her message echoes the theme of this year’s Together at Christmas carol service, which will take place on Dec 6 and has been designed as a “heartfelt celebration” of those who support others in need, with a focus on love and empathy.
It comes as the Princess makes a gradual return to public life following her cancer diagnosis and gruelling course of chemotherapy.
Senior members of the Royal family will be joined by a 1,600-strong congregation comprising those who support people in need within their communities and others who, like the Princess, have experienced a particularly difficult year.
Sir Chris, the former track cyclist who won six Olympic golds and who recently revealed he had been diagnosed with terminal cancer, will light a candle, as will Lindsey Burrow, the wife of late rugby league star Rob Burrow.
The Princess has also invited the child survivors of the Southport stabbing, as well as the families of the three young girls who were killed in the attack during a Taylor Swift-themed dance class on July 29.
Speakers will include the Prince of Wales, who recently described the past year as “brutal” and “probably the hardest” year of his life, and Michelle Dockery and Richard E Grant, the actors, both of whom have lost partners and spoken openly about grief and loss.
Sophie Okonedo, the Oscar-nominated actress who supports Great Ormond Street Hospital charity, and Adam Peaty, the Olympic swimmer, will also give readings, while Lizzi Jordan and Danni Khan, both Paralympic cyclists, will light candles.
For the first time, guests will be treated to a specially curated performance by two soloists from the Royal Ballet and students from the Royal Ballet School.
Singers Olivia Dean, Gregory Porter, Paloma Faith and JP Cooper will perform as well as pianist Rosey Chan.
The Princess wrote in her letter that Christmas was one of her favourite times of the year.
She said it was a time, not just for celebration but also to “slow down and reflect on the deeper things that connect us all”.
She added: “It is when we stop and take ourselves away from the pressures of daily life, that we find the space to live our lives with an open heart, with love, kindness and forgiveness – so much of what the Christmas spirit is all about.”
The Princess described how the Christmas story encourages us to consider the experiences and feelings of others, reflects our own vulnerabilities and “reminds us of the importance of giving and receiving empathy, as well as just how much we need each other in spite of our differences”.
She said: “Above all else, it encourages us to turn to love, not fear. The love that we show ourselves and the love we show others. Love that listens with empathy, love that is kind and understanding, love that is forgiving, and love that brings joy and hope.
“It is this love which is the greatest gift we can receive. Not just at Christmas, but every day of our lives. Love is the light that can shine bright, even in our darkest times. We all have something we can offer one another. Gentle words or a receptive ear, an arm around an exhausted shoulder, or silently being by someone’s side.”
The Princess said her carol service was a “heartfelt celebration” of every inspiring person across the UK embracing those in need.
“They have provided comfort, counsel, and connection, and above all else, they have shown that love unites and strengthens us all,” she added.
“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 Abbey will be adorned for the service with sustainable decorations and foliage. A “Kindness Tree” will be placed outside for guests to dedicate a decoration to someone who has supported them.
Meanwhile, the Royal Foundation is supporting 15 community carol services taking place across the UK throughout December, which will include elements of the Westminster Abbey service, including the Princess’s letter.
The Abbey service will be broadcast as part of a special programme on ITV1 and ITVX on Christmas Eve.
