Princess Kate: Royal Christmas Carol concert message a signal of hope after cancer battle
The Princess of Wales has written a heartfelt letter to those invited to this year’s Christmas Carol concert with stories of hope resilience and a consideration of others after her own health battles throughout 2024.
Princess Kate took extended leave from royal duties this year and has expressed her appreciation for the thoughts and prayers offered for her own battle with cancer, but also to those who have felt tragedy in a tumultuous year for the Windsor household.
The UK Sun reported that the 42-year-old Princess reached out personally to those invited to attend the concert with a message of hope.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.“The Christmas story encourages us to consider the experiences and feelings of others,” she said.
“It encourages us to turn to love.
“It is this love which is the greatest gift we can receive.
“Love is the light that can shine bright, even in our darkest times.”
The Sun reports rugby player Rob Burrow’s widow Lindsey and former Olympic champion cyclist Sir Chris Hoy — who has terminal cancer — will light candles at the service in Westminster Abbey on December 6.
One of the most horrific incidents in the UK this year, the Southport stabbing attack, will be commemorated during the concert with families of the three children who were murdered set to attend.
Around 1600 invitees have the opportunity to attend, with the princess keen to celebrate individuals who “above all else shown that love is the greatest gift we can receive”.
“This year’s service provides a moment to reflect upon the importance of love and empathy, and how much we need each other, especially in the most difficult times of our lives,” A Palace statement said.
“The service will shine a light on individuals from all over the UK who have shown love, kindness and empathy towards others in their communities.
“This year, Her Royal Highness wanted to celebrate the many people supporting those in need — individuals who have inspired, counselled, comforted, and above all else shown that love is the greatest gift we can receive.
“This theme takes inspiration from the Christmas story which encourages us to consider the experiences of others and the important human need of giving and receiving empathy.”
The King, Queen Camilla and William are all expected at attend and the concert will be aired on Christmas Eve in the UK.
In another sign the Wales’ household is getting back to normal after the Princess’s chemotherapy treatment they are set to host the Emir of Qatar in London.
Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and his wife Sheikha Jawaher will arrive on Tuesday morning UK time before travelling to Horse Guards Parade in St James’ Park for a welcome ceremony, in which the Qatari national anthem will be played and its flag raised.
King Charles and Queen Camilla will join them for a carriage procession along The Mall to Buckingham Palace, followed by lunch and a cultural exhibition arranged by the Royal Collection Trust and the Turquoise Mountain Foundation, which will display Qatari items.
However, Princess Catherine is not expected to attend the state banquet that evening, a white-tie affair in which the King and the Emir will give speeches to about 150 guests.
The Princess announced in September she was officially cancer free via a video featuring Prince William and theor four children.
“As the summer comes to an end, I cannot tell you what a relief it is to have finally completed my chemotherapy treatment,” Princess Kate said.
“This time has above all reminded William and me to reflect and be grateful for the simple yet important things in life, which so many of us often take for granted.”
