It is the fourth year that the Princess has hosted the event. Photo / Getty Images
Kate Middleton’s Christmas carol concert will focus on “how much we need each other” after cancer, as her Royal Highness makes a gradual return to public life and royal duties.
The Princess of Wales’ annual Christmas carol concert will this year focus on the theme of “how much we need each other, especially in the most difficult times of our lives”.
The Princess, who is making a gradual return to public life after chemotherapy, will host her Together at Christmas concert at Westminster Abbey on December 6.
This year, the service will reflect on the “importance of love and empathy”, with a guest list designed to “shine a light on individuals from all over the UK who have shown love, kindness and empathy towards others in their communities”.
It is the fourth year that the Princess has hosted the event, which originated as part of her work in previous years and has become a fixture of the royal calendar.
The event will be one of just a handful of public engagements she attends this year after serious illness. Along with Remembrance Sunday, it is one of the two major public appearances she most wanted to make before Christmas.
Kensington Palace said that the service was designed to celebrate those supporting others in need, with a focus on the importance of love and empathy.
A palace spokesman said: “This year’s service provides a moment to reflect upon the importance of love and empathy, and how much we need each other, especially in the most difficult times of our lives.
“The service will shine a light on individuals from all over the UK who have shown love, kindness and empathy towards others in their communities.”
They added: “This year, Her Royal Highness wanted to celebrate 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.
“This theme takes inspiration from the Christmas story which encourages us to consider the experiences of others and the important human need of giving and receiving empathy.”
The Prince of Wales last week spoke of the “brutal” time his family has faced recently, calling it “probably the worst year of my life”.
The Princess is hoping to be well enough to return to overseas tours next year, he suggested, as she makes a measured return to public work following major abdominal surgery and chemotherapy.
The Together at Christmas carol service is supported by the Royal Foundation, will be filmed on December 6 and broadcast as part of a special programme in the UK on Christmas Eve.
Members of the Royal Family have previously shown their support for the event by joining the congregation, along with Prince George, Princess Charlotte, Prince Louis and the Middleton family.
About 1600 people will fill the abbey in London for carols and musical performances by stars including Paloma Faith, Olivia Dean and Gregory Porter.
Among the invited guests will be those honoured for their support of others, either on a personal level with friends and family, through their work or volunteering.
Names have been nominated by charities associated with the Royal family, and by Lord Lieutenants, the King’s representatives in counties across the UK.
Decorations at the abbey will be inspired by nature, with a service arranged to combine traditional and modern elements to encompass people of all faiths and none.
In addition, 15 Together At Christmas community carol services will be taking place across the UK, including at the Royal Cornwall Hospital in Truro and Blackpool Tower Circus.
Hosted by Lord Lieutenants and supported by the Royal Foundation, each community service will recognise those who have gone above and beyond to help others.