The Princess of Wales, Catherine, has shared an emotional Christmas message, calling for "love, not fear" ahead of her carol concert next week. Reflecting on the Christmas story, she emphasizes "the importance of giving and receiving empathy" and highlights "how much we need each other, despite our differences."
Catherine, who has faced health challenges this year, adds, "Love is the light that can shine bright, even in our darkest times."
Her heartfelt message will be shared in a letter to guests attending the carol concert at Westminster Abbey on December 6, as well as at 15 regional concerts across the UK.
Catherine says of the meaning of Christmas: "Above all else, it encourages us to turn to love, not fear."
It's a letter full of reflections on the importance of supporting one another, accompanying a concert that includes guests who have had a difficult year, such as families affected by the Southport knife attack.
Catherine praises those who care for others in need: "Gentle words or a receptive ear, an arm around an exhausted shoulder, or silently being by someone’s side."
The Together at Christmas carol service will also mark the latest stage in the princess's return to public life after a year in which she was diagnosed with cancer before receiving chemotherapy treatment, which ended in September.
She says Christmas is a time to "slow down and reflect on the deeper things that connect us all" and to "live our lives with an open heart".
The language is unashamedly emotive and prayer-like, extolling the virtues of love, and similar in tone to the princess's video message when she revealed that her chemotherapy had ended.
"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," she writes.
The carol service will include readings and music, with speakers including the Prince of Wales and Richard E Grant and participation from singers Gregory Porter and Paloma Faith.
Olympic and world champion cyclist Sir Chris Hoy, who was also diagnosed with cancer this year, will join others in lighting candles at the event. Guests will also have the opportunity to dedicate a decoration to someone who has supported them on a "kindness tree" outside Westminster Abbey.
Alongside the famous faces, the event will honor volunteers who have made a difference in their communities.
In addition to the main service at Westminster Abbey, regional carol services will take place over the next two weeks at cathedrals, churches, and other venues across the UK, including locations such as St Albans, Dewsbury, Aberdeen, Luton, Brecon, Omagh, Taunton, Truro, and Blackpool.
Source: BBC
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
