The Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, has expressed deep appreciation for the community champions invited to her annual Christmas carol service. In a heartfelt letter to her guests, she praised their dedication in making an “extraordinary difference to the lives of others” and highlighted how the festive season reminds us that “our lives are woven together” despite moments of uncertainty or fragmentation.
On Friday, Kate will host the Together At Christmas service at Westminster Abbey, marking its fifth consecutive year. This significant event will bring together members of the royal family and 1,600 guests to celebrate love, compassion, and community service in all its forms. The service recognizes individuals from across the UK who have volunteered, led community initiatives, or offered unwavering support to those around them.
In her letter, Kate describes the carol service as “a moment of collective togetherness” — a celebration of community spirit and service that honors both visible and unseen bonds uniting everyone. She acknowledges the quiet, selfless acts of kindness that often go unnoticed yet profoundly impact lives.
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Among the guests are inspiring volunteers like Madison Reed, a schoolgirl who raised over £1,360 for the Archie Foundation by performing Highland dances across 26 Scottish locations, each representing a different letter of the alphabet. The foundation supports sick children and their families receiving medical care in northeast Scotland.
Also attending is Ann Davies, an 80-year-old volunteer cook for the Moses Project, which mentors men overcoming addictions. She has given nearly a decade of service and also volunteers as a responsible adult supporting vulnerable individuals at a police station in Middlesbrough.
Kate’s letter beautifully captures the essence of the season: “Christmas is a time that reminds us how deeply our lives are woven together. Just as tree roots share unseen strength beneath the soil, so too do we.” She emphasizes the human desire for belonging and connection, noting that even in the busy holiday rush, the season encourages kindness and care that extends far beyond what we see.
Prince William will join Kate at the service and will deliver a reading, with hopes high that their children—Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis—will also attend alongside other royal family members. The event will feature performances by Katie Melua, Fisherman’s Friends, and Griff, alongside readings by acclaimed actors Kate Winslet, Chiwetel Ejiofor, and others, accompanied by pianist Paul Gladstone Reid.
In addition to the Westminster Abbey service, 15 community carol services will take place around the UK, including at the Coronation Street Visitor Centre and a community farm in Gwent, all embracing the same theme of love and togetherness. Guests at these services will also receive Kate’s inspiring letter.
The Christmas Eve service at Westminster Abbey will be broadcast on ITV1 and ITVX, with a repeat airing on Christmas Day, bringing the spirit of community and connection to audiences across the nation.