The Princess of Wales has called on the nation to unite “with generosity of heart, understanding, and hope” during challenging times, as she prepares to host her annual Christmas carol concert in support of charitable causes.
In a heartfelt message to guests at the Together at Christmas event at Westminster Abbey on Friday, the Princess of Wales emphasized the importance of reaching out to loved ones and friends “at a time when life can sometimes feel fragmented or uncertain.”
This year’s concert, centred around the themes of “love, compassion, and connection,” will see the future queen welcome 1,600 community champions to the fifth annual event.
The princess, who continues her recovery from cancer treatment last year, has previously highlighted the restorative power of spending time in nature as part of her healing journey.
In her message, the Princess of Wales reflected on her vision of community and the festive season being closely intertwined, saying it is “just as the roots of trees share strength beneath the soil, unseen but vital.”
The world-famous Westminster Abbey choir will perform some of the nation’s most cherished carols, accompanied by musical appearances from actor Hannah Waddingham, British singers Katie Melua, Dan Smith, and Griff, as well as the Cornish folk group Fisherman’s Friends. Guests will also enjoy a special performance from young talents at Platinum Performing Arts, a community-focused organisation based in Edmonton, North London.
Throughout the service, moving readings tied to the themes of love, compassion, and connection will be delivered by speakers including the Prince of Wales, Kate Winslet, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Babatunde Aléshé, and Joe Locke, whose segment will be accompanied by pianist Paul Gladstone Reid.
In a message shared with guests from across the UK who have dedicated their time to charities or community groups, the Princess of Wales said:
“At its heart, Christmas is about love expressed in the simplest, most human ways.
“Not through grand or sentimental gestures, but through gentle acts — a listening ear, a comforting word, a friendly conversation, a helping hand, simply being present. These small acts of care may seem modest, but together they create the rich tapestry of life to which we all belong.
“Christmas reminds us of how deeply our lives are connected. Just as tree roots share strength beneath the soil, unseen yet vital, so too are we bound to one another, drawn by an instinctive need for belonging and connection.”
The Princess of Wales also encouraged people to slow down amid the festive rush, reminding everyone that even small actions and words can have a profound impact. She said:
“Even with all the rushing around and familiar traditions, there is a quieter side to the season that calls to us. There is a softness that reminds us of something easy to forget: what we do matters. Our words, our choices, and the ways we look out for one another ripple outward, touching lives we may never see.
“At a time when life can feel fragmented or uncertain, Christmas invites us to reach out to others with generosity of heart, understanding, and hope.
“This Carol Service offers a moment of collective togetherness, a chance to celebrate the spirit of community and service, and to honour the visible and invisible bonds that unite us. The time, care, and compassion you give — often quietly, without expectation or recognition — make an extraordinary difference in the lives of others.
“As the year draws to a close, I hope this season brings you moments of peace and clarity, and that you feel surrounded by the same love and care that you give so freely. Thank you for the warmth, kindness, and quiet light you bring to others. Wishing you a very Happy Christmas.”
Led by the Princess of Wales and supported by The Royal Foundation, the service aims to “bring people together to celebrate love in all its forms — whether within families, through friendships, across communities, or in moments of kindness between strangers,” Kensington Palace said.
The event will be broadcast as part of Royal Carols: Together At Christmas, a special programme airing on ITV1 and ITVX on Christmas Eve, with a repeat showing on Christmas Day morning.
Co-produced by BBC Studios Events and The Royal Foundation, the broadcast will include two special films highlighting the stories of individuals and organisations who have demonstrated love, joy, and compassion to others during times of need.
After the service, congregational candles from Westminster Abbey will be donated to the Church Candle Challenge, a recycling initiative based at St. Peter’s Church in Prestbury, Cheshire.