- Here's King Charles' Christmas message
- From the Buckingham Palace
- During the holiday broadcast
For the second time, King Charles takes center stage in the cherished royal holiday tradition, delivering a heartfelt Christmas message that resonates with themes of service and unity.
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A message of compassion
In his pre-recorded address from Buckingham Palace, King Charles, 75, emphasizes the significance of service to others, acknowledging the challenging times faced by many families. He reflects on the collective efforts to care for one another and highlights the importance of the selfless volunteers who form the backbone of society.
"Over this past year, my heart has been warmed by countless examples of the imaginative ways in which people are caring for one another — going the extra mile to help those around them simply because they know it is the right thing to do: at work and at home; within and across communities," he said.
Amidst global conflicts, King Charles draws inspiration from the Christmas story, emphasizing the universal values of love and care. He urges collective protection, quoting the words of Jesus and emphasizing shared values across diverse belief systems. The monarch calls for empathy and goodwill, emphasizing the interconnectedness of humanity. "I pray that we can also do all in our power to protect each other," the King said.
In a notable departure, King Charles delivers his address beside a living tree, underscoring his commitment to environmental conservation. The Christmas tree, adorned with natural and sustainable decorations, symbolizes the monarch's ongoing efforts to promote eco-friendly practices.
A tradition rooted in history
The tradition of the monarch's Christmas message, initiated by King George V in 1932, remains a festive staple for Britons. King Charles, continuing the legacy, delivered his remarks against the backdrop of Windsor Castle. The annual broadcast unites families around the TV, although it saw occasional breaks in 1936, 1938, and 1969.
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On Christmas Day, King Charles and Queen Camilla led the royal family in attending a church service at the Church of St. Mary Magdalene in Norfolk, near Sandringham. Following the traditional church outing, the royals return to Sandringham House for a festive turkey feast, culminating in the cherished monarch's Christmas speech broadcast on television.