The Princess of Wales Kate Middleton made an emotional and moving tribute to the late Queen in her Christmas carol service. In an awe-inspiring speech, the future Queen Consort mentioned Her Majesty's "incredible legacy" which "deeply inspired many of us".
The carol service, which the Princess helped organise, was recorded on December 15 and is scheduled to be broadcast on Christmas Eve on ITV, the Mirror reports. Introducing the programme, Kate said: "This Christmas will be our first without Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth.
"Her Majesty held Christmas close to her heart, as a time that brought people together and reminded us of the importance of faith, friendship and family, and to show empathy and compassion. Her Majesty leaves with us an incredible legacy and one that has deeply inspired many of us.
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"So, whilst Christmas will feel very different this year, we can still remember the memories and traditions we shared. Take time to slow down and celebrate with family and friends all the wonderful things that make Christmas so special."
More than 1,800 people attended the festive event at Westminster Abbey. These .included many members of the Royal Family, as well as the Prince of Wales, his and Kate's children, King Charles and Queen Consort.
Westminster Abbey choir performed at the service, along with RnB singer Craig David, English tenor Alfie Boe and former Spice Girl Mel C. The likes of William and Dame Kristin Scott Thomas were among those delivering readings.
There was a Christmas tree in the Abbey that had been decorated with small Paddington Bears, in reference to the late Queen's famous moment with the fictional character. Upon entering the building, guests were welcomed by atmospheric snowflakes.
When the carol service will be broadcast to the public, it will also show Inna Hryhorovych, headmistress of St Mary's Ukrainian School in London, receiving a letter from Kate. In the letter Kate thanks her for the care she provides to families and children attending the school amid the conflict in their home nation.
Princess of Wales' message in full:
I am so thrilled to be back at Westminster Abbey for our second carol service. Last year’s event reminded me what I love most about Christmas, seeing people coming together, celebrating and experiencing special moments, whilst also thinking about the year that’s passed.
This Christmas will be our first without Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth. Her Majesty held Christmas close to her heart, as a time that brought people together and reminded us of the importance of faith, friendship and family, and to show empathy and compassion.
This year, we’ve invited hundreds of inspiring individuals to the service. Those who showcase the power of connectedness and community values, allowing us to continue Her Majesty’s tradition of recognising and thanking those who have gone above and beyond to support others.
Her Majesty leaves with us an incredible legacy and one that has deeply inspired many of us. This year’s carol service is dedicated to her and to all those who are sadly no longer with us.
So, whilst Christmas will feel very different this year, we can still remember the memories and traditions we shared. Take time to slow down and celebrate with family and friends all the wonderful things that make Christmas so special. I do hope you enjoy this evening and I wish you all a very Merry Christmas.
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