Kate Middleton‘s next major engagement is expected to be her Together at Christmas concert in December, which has a moving theme after what she previously described as a “tough” few months amid her cancer diagnosis and completion of chemotherapy treatment.
On Nov. 13, Kensington Palace announced that the Princess of Wales, 42, will host her fourth annual carol service at Westminster Abbey on Friday, Dec. 6. Princess Kate will continue a tradition she originated in December 2021 as a thank you to those who stepped up for their communities amid the COVID-19 pandemic, and this year’s theme is love and empathy.
“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 U.K. who have shown love, kindness and empathy towards others in their communities,” Princess Kate’s office said in a statement.
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“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,” the statement continued. “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 theme of Together at Christmas has varied each year, and Princess Kate’s choice to spotlight values around compassion is meaningful after a challenging time. In March, the Princess of Wales announced that she was undergoing chemotherapy for cancer and stepped back from the spotlight to prioritize her health. With her family around her, Princess Kate shared in a Sept. 9 video that she completed chemo, describing it as a “relief” to have completed that treatment and acknowledging the difficulties of the year.
“As the summer comes to an end, I cannot tell you what a relief it is to have finally completed my chemotherapy treatment,” the Princess of Wales said in audio overlaid over footage of her with her husband Prince William and their children Prince George, 11, Princess Charlotte, 9, and Prince Louis, 6, unprecedented for its intimacy of their private life,
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“The last nine months have been incredibly tough for us as a family. Life as you know it can change in an instant, and we have had to find a way to navigate the stormy waters and road unknown,” she continued.
Elsewhere in the message, Princess Kate mentioned love and empathy as guiding lights during the uncertain time.
“This time has above all reminded William and me to reflect and be grateful for the simple yet important things in life, which so many of us often take for granted. Of simply loving and being loved,” she said in part.
Later in the video, the royal said that she and William were grateful for the support of those who rallied around them, mentioning, “Everyone’s kindness, empathy and compassion has been truly humbling.”
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In three weeks, Kensington Palace said 1,600 people will convene for Princess Kate’s holiday concert in what has become a staple on the royal family’s annual calendar. The palace said that the guests will be individuals who support their communities, celebrating the best of what’s being done for others across the U.K. The Westminster Abbey choir will perform alongside Paloma Faith, Olivia Dean and Gregory Porter, and the special will be filmed and broadcast on ITV1 and ITVX on Christmas Eve.
Prince William, 42, is expected to support his wife at the event she spearheaded in partnership with The Royal Foundation, though the attendance of their three children won’t be confirmed until the day of.
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On Nov. 13, Princess Kate’s team gave a peek at the preparations underway and posted a video of a metal press churning out the invites for the carol service, stamped with the princess’ cypher.
“Something exciting is coming… We can’t wait for you to join us too!” they wrote in part.
Step inside the royals’ holiday traditions with PEOPLE’s Special Edition: Christmas at the Palace: A Royal Family Album.
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