“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” – The Princess of Wales
Ahead of her second Christmas Carol broadcast on ITV, The Princess of Wales, Catherine, released a video message in which she paid a heartfelt tribute to Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II who passed away this year in September. This would be the Royal Family’s first Christmas gathering at the Sandringham without Queen and Prince Philip who passed away in April 2021.
The Princess of Wales hosted the second Christmas Carol service at Westminster Abbey on December 15th which was attended by King Charles III, Queen Camilla, The Prince of Wales, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, The Countess of Wessex, The Duke of Gloucester, Princess Beatrice and her husband, Princess Eugenie and her husband, Mike and Zara Tindall. You can read more about the event here.
The Carol service was to be broadcast on ITV on Christmas Eve. Ahead of the broadcast Kensington Palace released this video message that was recorded a day before the service at Westminster Abbey. The video began with Princess saying, “I’m so thrilled to be back at Westmin Westminster Abbey for our second Carol service. Last year’s event reminded me of what I love most about Christmas, people coming together, celebrating, and experiencing special moments whilst also thinking about the year that’s passed“.
Watch highlights from the #RoyalCarols #TogetherAtChristmas carol service from Westminster Abbey. pic.twitter.com/ufJOaMmamy
— Westminster Abbey (@wabbey) December 24, 2022
The evening recognised selflessness among individuals and communities around the UK and highlight the importance of supporting others during difficult times. Spearheaded by The Princess of Wales, the event is being supported by The Royal Foundation of the Prince and Princess of Wales.
#TogetherAtChristmas 2022 💫
📸 ITV #Thread pic.twitter.com/06UQA6scp5
— ChristinZ (@ChristinsQueens) December 25, 2022
At the event, The Princess of Wales met with many individuals and groups who have gone above and beyond to help others during difficult times. They include many from the Royal Family’s patronages, people The Prince and Princess of Wales met during their public engagements.
Here in the picture above, The Princess of Wales meeting with the staff members of St Helens & Whiston Hospital. Catherine is wearing the same green Burberry dress that she wore during the welcome ceremony in Boston in October this year.
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In the video, The Princess of Wales chose another Christmas-inspired look – She was wearing a black Self-Portrait Sequin Knit Crop Cardigan. Thanks to Katie and Laura on Twitter for the quick id.
The $585 cardigan was described as, “A party-ready spin on a timeless design, this jacket is crafted from black sequinned knit for a glistening finish. Alongside its eye-catching gold braided trim and diamanté-buttoned pockets, it’s cropped for a flattering fit. Wear it with jeans and flats for a look that’ll take you from the desk to the cocktails effortlessly. Check the Size Guide to find your perfect fit.”
The Princess paired the cardigan with Shyla London Chunky Knot Soft Citrine Earrings.
On Sunday, King Charles III will be hosting The Royal Family at the Sandringham Estate for Christmas. Another first of the new reign. Also, we will be seeing his first-ever Christmas message. The King has chosen to record the message in the Quire at St. George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle where his Parents were buried earlier this year.
The year is ending on another great note for the Princess of Wales. The King has appointed the Princess the Colonel of the Irish Guards. The position is currently held by the Prince of Wales who will be taking over the Colonel of Welsh Guards. Announcing the news, Buckingham Palace confirmed that next year Trooping the Colour will be held on June 17th.
Finally. A Military Role for The #PrincessofWales.
Catherine will take over from her husband, Prince William, as Colonel of the Irish Guards, while he becomes Colonel of the Welsh Guards. https://t.co/dXCxz9iDjB pic.twitter.com/A5Xny71z0h
— RegalFille (@RegalFille) December 22, 2022
Usually, the Colonels ride on horses during the Trooping the Colour Parade. Most likely the Princess of Wales will not as it was reported in the past that she is allergic to horses. She will continue riding in the carriage with The Queen.
I will be back on Sunday for the Christmas coverage. Until then I wish all of you a very Merry Christmas and Happy holidays!!