Kate Middleton reflects on ‘vulnerabilities’ in moving Christmas speech
Kate Middleton’s highly anticipated Christmas carol concert has returned!
The Princess of Wales, 42, led her fourth “Together at Christmas” extravaganza to welcome in the festive season. The event was pre-recorded and took place at London’s Westminster Abbey on Dec. 6.
It was also Kate’s first Christmas carol service since she revealed her cancer diagnosis in March 2024.
In a moving speech that kicked off the broadcast, the princess shared that Christmas is a time to reflect on “our own vulnerabilities.”
“Christmas is one of my favorite times of the year, it is a time for presents, tinsel and mince pies, but it’s also a time to slow down and reflect on the deeper things that connect us all,” Kate began.
“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 Christmas story encourages us to consider the experiences and feelings of others,” she added.
“It also 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. Above all else, it encourages us to turn to love, not fear.”
The princess continued, “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 love which is the greatest gift we can receive, not just at Christmas but every day of our lives.”
With a new theme each year, 2024’s service focused on the importance of love and empathy while reflecting on “how much we need each other, especially in the most difficult times of our lives.”
The service featured performances from young musicians, a 25-piece steel pan band and a jazz ensemble from Restore the Music, a nonprofit organization supporting music education for the youth.
Guests were also treated to readings with themes of love and empathy delivered by William, 42, the future king.
The annual carol service, which is supported by The Royal Foundation, was thrust into doubt earlier this year following Middleton’s health woes.
Indeed, the beloved royal was dealt a tough start to the year that saw her undergo abdominal surgery in January, which was closely followed by a cancer diagnosis in March.
Her father-in-law, King Charles III, was also diagnosed with cancer earlier this year.
After revealing she was finally cancer-free in September, it’s understood that the princess began planning the festive project as soon as she was feeling better.
Before this year’s event, Princess Catherine extended an invitation to people who have made a difference in their communities.
More than 1,600 invitees attended the service, and the mom of three even arrived early to chat with some of the event’s volunteers.
The palace previously said that the beloved royal “wanted to celebrate the many people supporting those in need — individuals who have inspired, counseled, comforted, and above all else shown that love is the greatest gift we can receive.”
For the extravaganza, Catherine opted for a long red coat with an oversized black velvet bow at the collar. She accessorized her festive look with pearl drop earrings and tall black boots.
Prince William, for his part, arrived a little while later with their three children: Prince George, 11, Princess Charlotte, 9, and Prince Louis, 6.
The foursome was greeted by Middleton outside before the family made their way into the iconic Anglican church.
While inside, the kids took a moment to share a handwritten note on the “Kindness Tree” — a spot where guests dedicate an ornament to important people in their lives.
In his heartwarming note, Prince Louis penned, “Thank you for Granny and Grandpa because they have played games with me.”
William and his sons matched in black suits with white shirts and red ties while Charlotte opted for a long, burgundy coat — similar to that of her mother’s.
The festive event comes after The Post exclusively revealed how the Waleses are celebrating Christmas this year.
