Kate Middleton reflects on ‘vulnerabilities’ in moving Christmas speech

Kate Middleton’s highly anticipated carol concert is back!

The Princess of Wales, 42, hosted her fourth ‘Together at Christmas’ extravaganza to welcome in the festive season. The event was pre-recorded and took place at London’s Westminster Abbey on December 6.

It was also Kate’s first carol service since revealing her cancer diagnosis in March 2024.

In a moving speech that kicked off the broadcast, the princess shared that Christmas is a time to reflect on “our own vulnerabilities.”

“Christmas is one of my favorite times of the year, it’s a time for presents, tinsel and mince pies, but it’s also a time to slow down and reflect on the deeper things that connect us all,” Kate began.

“It is when we stop and take ourselves away from the pressures of everyday life that we find space to live our lives with an open heart, with love, kindness and forgiveness, so much of what the Christmas spirit is about.”

“The Christmas story encourages us to consider the experiences and feelings of others,” she added.

“It also reflects our own vulnerabilities and reminds us of the importance of giving and receiving empathy, as well as how much we need each other despite our differences. Above all else, it encourages us to turn to love, not to fear.”

The princess continued: “The love we show ourselves and the love we show others. Love that listens with empathy, love that is kind and understanding, love that forgives and love that brings joy and hope. “

“It is love that is the greatest gift we can receive, not just at Christmas, but every day of our lives.”

With a new theme each year, 2024’s service focused on the importance of love and empathy while reflecting on “how much we need each other, especially during the most difficult times in our lives.”

The service featured performances by young musicians, a 25-piece steel pan band and a jazz ensemble from Restore the Music, a nonprofit organization that supports music education for youth.

Guests were also treated to readings with themes of love and empathy delivered by William, 42, the future king.

The annual carol service, which is supported by The Royal Foundation, was called into question earlier this year following Middleton’s health problems.

In fact, the beloved royal had a rough start to the year, undergoing stomach surgery in January, which was closely followed by a cancer diagnosis in March.

Her father-in-law, King Charles III, was also diagnosed with cancer earlier this year.

After revealing she was finally cancer-free in September, it is understood the princess began planning the celebratory project as soon as she was feeling better.

Ahead of this year’s event, Princess Catherine extended an invitation to people who have made a difference in their communities.

More than 1,600 invitees attended the service and the mother of three even arrived early to chat with some of the event’s volunteers.

The palace previously said the beloved royal “wanted to celebrate the many people who support those in need – people who have inspired, advised, comforted and above all else shown that love is the greatest gift we can receive.”

For the extravaganza, Catherine chose a long red coat with an oversized black velvet bow at the collar. She accessorized her festive look with pearl earrings and tall black boots.

Prince William, for his part, arrived a little later with their three children: Prince George, 11, Princess Charlotte, 9, and Prince Louis, 6.

The foursome were met by Middleton outside before the family entered the iconic Anglican church.

While inside, the children took a moment to share a handwritten note on the “Kindness Tree” – a place where guests dedicate an ornament to important people in their lives.

IN Prince Louis wrote his heartfelt note: “Thanks to Grandma and Grandpa for playing games with me.”

William and his sons matched black suits with white shirts and red ties, while Charlotte opted for a long, burgundy coat – similar to her mother’s.

The festive event comes after The Post exclusively revealed how the Welsh are celebrating Christmas this year.