Kate Middleton Celebrates Community Spirit Ahead of Christmas Service

The Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, has extended her appreciation to community leaders invited to her annual Christmas carol service. In a heartfelt letter, she commended their efforts in making an “extraordinary difference to the lives of others.” This year marks the fifth iteration of the Together At Christmas service, which will take place at Westminster Abbey on December 15, 2023.

In her letter, Kate reflects on the significance of the festive period, stating it serves as a reminder of how interconnected lives can be, even in times of uncertainty. She emphasized that the Christmas season “invites us to remember the power of reaching out to one another.” The event will gather 1,600 guests, including members of the royal family, to celebrate love and community spirit.

Recognizing Community Contributions

The service aims to honor individuals from across the UK who have dedicated their time to support others. This includes volunteers who have initiated community projects or offered assistance to those in need. Among the notable guests is Madison Reed, a schoolgirl who raised over £1,360 for the Archie Foundation by performing Highland dances at 26 locations throughout Scotland. The foundation supports sick children and their families in north-east Scotland.

Another guest, Ann Davies, is an 80-year-old volunteer cook with the Moses Project, which provides mentoring for individuals struggling with addiction. Davies also serves as a responsible adult at Middlesbrough Police Station, providing support to vulnerable individuals.

Kate’s letter further states, “This carol service offers a moment of collective togetherness, a chance to celebrate the spirit of community and service, and to honour the visible and invisible bonds that unite us all.” She acknowledges the often unrecognized contributions of individuals who support their communities, saying, “The time, care and compassion you give, often quietly and unspoken, make an extraordinary difference to the lives of others.”

A Celebration of Togetherness

At the service, the Princess will be joined by her husband, the Prince of Wales, who will deliver a reading. Royal watchers are hopeful that their children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis, will also make an appearance alongside other family members. The entertainment lineup features performances by Katie Melua, Fisherman’s Friends, and Griff, with actress Hannah Waddingham and Dan Smith from the band Bastille also participating.

The event will include readings focused on themes of love, compassion, and connection, delivered by notable figures such as Kate Winslet and Chiwetel Ejiofor, along with comedian Babatunde Aleshe and rising star Joe Locke. The performers will be accompanied by pianist Paul Gladstone Reid.

In addition to the main service, 15 community carol services will be held across the UK, including locations like the Coronation Street Visitor Centre and community farms in Gwent. All attendees will receive Kate’s letter, reinforcing the themes of love and togetherness.

The Westminster Abbey service will be broadcast on ITV1 and ITVX on Christmas Eve and will be repeated on Christmas Day, providing an opportunity for many to join in the spirit of the season from home.