Princess Kate Makes Touching Speech in New Video of Her Christmas Carol Service

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We will finally get a full look at Princess Kate’s “Together at Christmas” carol service. The event will be broadcast on ITV1 on Christmas Eve, and to mark the occasion, the Princess of Wales recorded a touching introduction speech for viewers.

“Welcome to our ‘Together at Christmas’ carol service here at Westminster Abbey,” Kate begins in the intro message. “Christmas is one of my favourite 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. 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.”

Kate hosted her carol service on December 6, a couple of months after announcing she had completed her chemotherapy treatment and was now cancer-free following a diagnosis earlier this year. At the service, she was joined by husband Prince William and their three kids, as well as by her Middleton family and several members of the British royal family. The princess looked lovely in a candy apple-red McQueen coat with a black bow, that she paired with black accessories.

“The Christmas story encourages us to consider the experiences and feelings of others. 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,” Kate continues in her introduction. “Above all else, it encourages us to turn to love, not fear. 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. Across the United Kingdom there are so many inspiring people embracing those in need. This carol service is a heartfelt celebration of every one of you, and a reminder that at Christmas, and throughout the year, we must all shine for each other. Because in times of joy and sadness, we are all each other’s light. I wish you and your loved ones a very Merry Christmas.”

A special letter from the Princess of Wales, with words from this intro, was given to every guest at the Westminster Abbey service, and at the 15 regional community services. In it she reflected on the importance of empathy.

Following Kate’s introduction, the broadcast of the carol service will be narrated by Scottish actress Kelly Macdonald, and feature three special community films which “bring to life the stories of people and organisations who have inspired, counselled and comforted others in their times of need,” per Kensington Palace.