Royal | News - Prince Ricardo De La Cerda
Princess Kate will host her annual Christmas carol concert next month with a theme on “how much we need each other during difficult times”, Kensington Palace has announced.
Kate, 42, who has made just five public appearances this year as she battled cancer, will attend her Together at Christmas Service at Westminster Abbey on Friday, December 6.
She had been keen to ensure the event formed part of her gradual return to royal duties, having held a planning meeting on the service in September.
The Palace said Kate, who finished her chemotherapy in the summer, particularly wanted the service’s theme to celebrate those supporting others in need, with a focus on the importance of love and empathy.
Kensington Palace said: “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.
“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 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 Palace added: “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.”
The annual Christmas concert has fast become an important component of Kate’s diary since she launched the event in 2021.
Members of the royal family will gather with the princess as some 1,600 people fill the abbey in London to see musical performances by stars including Paloma Faith, Olivia Dean and Gregory Porter.
Among the invited guests will be those who have supported others, either on a personal level with friends and family or through their work or volunteering.
Kate and William are expected to bring their children, Prince George, 11, Princess Charlotte, nine, and Prince Louis, six, to the event.
Westminster Abbey will be beautifully decorated with ornaments inspired by nature and guests will be treated to Christmas carols and stories of some of the congregation, who have provided invaluable support across their communities.
Fifteen ‘Together at Christmas’ community carol services will also take place across the UK including at the Royal Cornwall Hospital in Truro and Blackpool Tower Circus.
Hosted by Lord Lieutenants and supported by The Royal Foundation, each community service will recognise those who have gone above and beyond to help others.
‘Together at Christmas’ will be filmed and broadcast on ITV1 and ITVX on Christmas Eve.
Having announced in September that she had completed her course of chemotherapy, Kate is keen to ease herself back into royal duties over the coming months.
Last weekend, the Princess carried out two consecutive days of public official engagements as she attended Remembrance events in London.