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Kate Middleton reflects on “vulnerabilities” in her moving Christmas speech

Kate Middleton reflects on “vulnerabilities” in her moving Christmas speech

Kate Middleton’s highly anticipated Christmas Carol concert is back!

The 42-year-old Princess of Wales hosted her fourth Together at Christmas extravaganza to welcome the festive season. The event was pre-recorded and took place on December 6th at London’s Westminster Abbey.

It was also Kate’s first Christmas carol service since she announced her cancer diagnosis in March 2024.

In a moving speech at the start of the broadcast, the Princess shared that Christmas was a time to reflect on “our own vulnerabilities”.

Catherine, Princess of Wales attends the “Together At Christmas” service at Westminster Abbey in London, United Kingdom on December 6, 2024. The special aired on Christmas Eve. via REUTERS

“Christmas is one of my favorite times of the year. ‘It’s a time for presents, tinsel and mince pies, but it’s also a time to slow down and think about the deeper things that connect us all,’ Kate began.

“When we pause and step away from the pressures of daily life, 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 think about the experiences and feelings of others,” she added.

“It also reflects our own vulnerabilities, reminding us of the importance of giving and receiving empathy, and how much we need each other despite our differences.” Above all, it encourages us to turn to love, not fear .”

Catherine Princess of Wales, accompanied by William Prince of Wales and their children, hosts the third annual Together at Christmas service at Westminster Abbey. Reuters-PA/POOL provided by Splash News / SplashNews.com

The Princess continued, “The love we show ourselves and the love we show others.” Love that listens with empathy, love that is kind and understanding, love that forgives, and love that joy and brings hope.”

“Love is the greatest gift we can receive, not just at Christmas but every day of our lives.”

With a new theme each year, the 2024 service focused on the importance of love and empathy while reflecting on “how much we need each other, especially during the most difficult times of our lives.”

William, Prince of Wales, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, Prince Louis and Catherine, Princess of Wales attend the “Together At Christmas” service at Westminster Abbey on December 6, 2024 in London, United Kingdom. via REUTERS
“Downton Abbey” star Michelle Dockery gives a reading in the nave during the “Together At Christmas” service at Westminster Abbey in London, Britain, December 6, 2024. via REUTERS

The service included performances by young musicians, a 25-piece steel pan band and a jazz ensemble from Restore the Music, a nonprofit organization that supports music education for young people.

Guests were also treated to readings about love and compassion given by the future King William, 42.

The annual Christmas service, supported by the Royal Foundation, came into question earlier this year due to Middleton’s health problems.

Catherine Princess of Wales, accompanied by William Prince of Wales and their children, hosts the third annual Together at Christmas service at Westminster Abbey. Reuters-PA/POOL provided by Splash News / SplashNews.com
Prince Louis of Wales and Catherine, Princess of Wales attend the “Together At Christmas” service at Westminster Abbey on December 6, 2024 in London, England. Getty Images

In fact, the beloved royal had a difficult start to the year as she underwent abdominal surgery in January, which was quickly followed by a cancer diagnosis in March.

Her father-in-law, King Charles III, was also diagnosed with cancer earlier this year.

After announcing she was finally cancer-free in September, the princess apparently started planning the celebratory project as soon as she was feeling better.

Catherine, Princess of Wales attends the “Together At Christmas” service at Westminster Abbey in London, United Kingdom on December 6, 2024. via REUTERS

Ahead of this year’s event, Princess Catherine extended an invitation to people who have made a difference in their communities.

More than 1,600 invited guests attended the service, and the mother 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 who support those in need – people who have inspired, advised, comforted and, above all, shown that love is the greatest gift we can receive.”

Kate Middleton announced in March that she had cancer. BBC studios
In September, the princess announced that she was cancer-free. Will Warr/Kensington Royal/X

For extravagance, Catherine opted for a long red coat with an oversized black velvet bow at the collar. She accessorized her festive look with pearl earrings and tall black boots.

Prince William, for his part, arrived a little later with his three children: Prince George (11), Princess Charlotte (9) and Prince Louis (6).

The four were greeted outside by Middleton before the family entered the famous Anglican church.

Kate and Prince William unveiled their Christmas card earlier this month. Prince and Princess of Wales

While we were inside, the children took a moment to leave a handwritten note about the “Kindness Tree” – a place where guests dedicate an ornament to important people in their lives.

In his heartwarming message, Prince Louis wrote: “Thank you for grandma and grandpa because they played with me.”

William and his sons wore black suits with white shirts and red ties, while Charlotte opted for a long, burgundy coat – similar to her mother’s.

The festive event comes after The Post exclusively revealed how the Waleses are celebrating Christmas this year.

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