King Charles III advocates for compassion in his Christmas speech
King Charles III's compassionate Christmas address urges unity amidst global turmoil, addressing the ongoing Israeli-Hamas conflict in Gaza and Russia's invasion of Ukraine Stay informed with our free royal newsletter
King Charles III of Britain urged for compassion amid global conflict in his second Christmas broadcast as monarch. The message, a tradition spanning over 90 years, was filmed in the Centre Room of Buckingham Palace, with the iconic balcony and views of the Queen Victoria Memorial and The Mall as the backdrop. This comes as the war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza and Russia's invasion of Ukraine persist.
The King pondered the events of the past year, finding solace in the fundamental Christian principle of treating others with the same respect one desires for oneself.
"In a world marred by escalating conflicts, I hope that we can strive to safeguard one another," Charles stated. "The teachings of Jesus hold particular significance in these times: treat others as you would like to be treated."
At 75 years old, the monarch has been an avid supporter of environmental causes for most of his life. He recently addressed the COP28 climate summit and also spoke about environmental issues during his latest speech. He expressed his great inspiration at observing an increasing awareness of the need to safeguard the Earth and its natural world, which we all call home, after years of advocating for environmental protection.
On Monday, the royal family walked to the Christmas Morning Service at Sandringham, a vast 20,000-acre estate about 100 miles north of London, and greeted crowds along the way.
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An eco-friendly Christmas tree, decorated with sustainable ornaments made of wood, glass, paper, pinecones, and dried oranges, provided a festive backdrop as the monarch delivered his holiday message.
"Throughout the past year, I have been inspired by the many creative ways people have shown care and support for one another. Whether it's going beyond the call of duty at work or helping out in their communities, the selfless acts of kindness have truly touched my heart," King Charles stated.
He also expressed his gratitude for the "selfless army" of volunteers who have been the "essential backbone of our society."
Charles expressed his joy at the community representatives attending the coronation congregation in May, emphasizing the significance of their presence in reinforcing the true meaning of the Coronation. "Their presence meant so much to us both and emphasized the meaning of Coronation itself: above all, a call to us all to serve one another; to love and care for all," he said. The broadcast also included footage of the coronation service and balcony appearance, as well as other highlights from the year showing the royal family at various engagements.
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In his Christmas message, the King also recognized other faiths, emphasizing that numerous "great religions of the world" observe holidays with a festive meal. He emphasized that these occasions provide an opportunity for family and friends to unite across generations, with the act of sharing food enhancing camaraderie and unity.
Charles concluded his joyful message by expressing gratitude to "everyone who is dedicated to helping others" and those who are "taking care of our planet." On Monday, the King led his royal family in a walk to St. Mary Magdalene Church on the Sandringham estate in Norfolk for their traditional Christmas Day service.
Meanwhile, the Prince and Princess of Wales marked Christmas Day by released a new photograph of their three children.
Princess Charlotte leans in with a big smile, hugging her brothers, Princes George and Louis in a charming black and white photo captured by British photographer Josh Shinner. The trio, dressed casually, sit on a wooden bench, reminiscent of the family's Christmas card portrait, and the picture was shared on the couple's social media accounts on Monday.
