The Princess of Wales radiated holiday cheer at her fourth Christmas carol service. Her Royal Highness hosted her annual holiday event on Friday at Westminster Abbey looking festive dressed in a red double-breasted coat by Alexander McQueen with an oversized black bow and a red tartan skirt by Emilia Wickstead.
Catherine was joined by her husband Prince William and their three children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, at the service. Like her mother, Charlotte wore a red coat for the event, as well as a black bow—but in her hair! Meanwhile, brothers George and Louis twinned in navy suits and red ties.
© Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty ImagesOutside of the Abbey, the Wales children hung messages on the "kindness tree." Louis' handwritten note read: "Thank you to granny and grandpa because they have played games with me."
© Isabel Infantes-WPA Pool/Getty ImagesThis year's "Together at Christmas" service shined a light on individuals who have shown love, kindness and empathy towards others in their communities. Attendees included members of the royal family, the Middleton family and people who have supported others in their communities, including some who have gone through difficult times this year.
© JORDAN PETTITT/POOL/AFP via Getty ImagesPrince William has previously described 2024 as a "brutal" year. His father, King Charles, was diagnosed with a former of cancer and his wife underwent a course of preventative chemotherapy. In early September, the Princess announced that she had completed her treatment. At the time, she said, "The last nine months have been incredibly tough for us as a family. Life as you know it can change in an instant and we have had to find a way to navigate the stormy waters and road unknown. The cancer journey is complex, scary and unpredictable for everyone, especially those closest to you."
© Aaron Chown - WPA Pool/Getty Images"With humility, it also brings you face to face with your own vulnerabilities in a way you have never considered before, and with that, a new perspective on everything. This time has above all reminded William and me to reflect and be grateful for the simple yet important things in life, which so many of us often take for granted. Of simply loving and being loved. Doing what I can to stay cancer free is now my focus," the Princess continued. "Although I have finished chemotherapy, my path to healing and full recovery is long and I must continue to take each day as it comes. I am however looking forward to being back at work and undertaking a few more public engagements in the coming months when I can. Despite all that has gone before I enter this new phase of recovery with a renewed sense of hope and appreciation of life. William and I are so grateful for the support we have received and have drawn great strength from all those who are helping us at this time. Everyone’s kindness, empathy and compassion has been truly humbling."
Ahead of Catherine's annual Christmas carol service, Kensington Palace revealed that the Princess wanted to celebrate this year "the many people supporting those in need – individuals who have inspired, counselled, comforted, and above all else shown that love is the greatest gift we can receive." Guests at the 2024 "Together at Christmas" carol service received a special letter by the royal. In it, the Princess of Wales wrote: "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 this love which is the greatest gift we can receive. Not just at Christmas, but every day of our lives. Love is the light that can shine bright, even in our darkest times."
