Catherine's Annual Festive Service of Carols Pays Tribute to Community Volunteers
The Princess of Wales is hosting her yearly festive musical service at the historic Abbey, with attendees featuring dignitaries, stars, and everyday helpers who have made a difference in their neighbourhoods.
The large audience will enjoy a blend of carols, music and readings from performers including Chiwetel Ejiofor and Kate Winslet.
A Theme of Compassion and Love
The focus of the event, held in the glowing Westminster Abbey on Friday, is generosity and expressing affection towards one's neighbour.
In the audience are Jonathan and Anna Cordiner, whose daughter died of a brain tumour, and who set up a charity, a support fund, to support families who have a terminally ill child.
"The time, care and compassion you give, often quietly and unspoken, and without any thought of thanks or praise, make an extraordinary difference to the circumstances of individuals," Her Royal Highness stated in a message before the festive gathering.
Carefully Paced Reappearance
The royal has been undertaking her own gradual return to public life subsequent to her illness and medical care, last month delivering her first public speech for two years, in which she reflected on recognising the "selfless, commonly overlooked efforts of carers".
Performance and Potential
Attendees entering the Abbey will be entertained by young musicians aided by the Future Talent charity, set up with the help of the Duchess of Kent to widen access to instrumental training.
Carys Wood, aged 18, who plays the trumpet and is from Wales, has been helped by the charity, with grants helping towards instruments, tuition, and transportation expenses - and she said it was "awesome" to be taking part in the concert.
"Musical pursuits are frequently pricey," Carys said. She is now enrolled at the Royal Academy of Music, and added that "each individual ought to be given the possibility" to hone their artistic talents.
Generations Gathering
Carys's 11-year-old sister, Eliza, who performs on the brass instrument, will be present at the Abbey. "It's unbelievable that I get to perform here in front of so many distinguished guests," she said.
Attending the service will be representatives of different generations.
That will feature nine-year-old Saphia Turner, winner of a prize for youthful altruism, who produces drawings and undertakes charity feats to raise money for local food charities.
Festive Decor and Performances
The Abbey has been adorned with specially made wreaths, with celebrity baker Mary Berry and floral designer Simon Lycett assisting in their creation.
Among the musical performers will be recording artist Katie Melua, the Abbey's own choir and a maritime folk band from Cornwall, the Fisherman's Friends, who said the opportunity to perform was "the perfect culmination."
The festive event titled 'Together at Christmas' will be broadcast on television on December 24th.
