Princess Catherine appeared emotional during the closing carol for her 'Together At Christmas' service after bravely persevering to host her annual event amid cancer fight

The Princess of Wales' emotional moment during the Together at Christmas carol concert highlighted her remarkable resilience after a challenging year. Kate stood as a beacon of strength and grace, hosting her fourth annual service at Westminster Abbey despite undergoing preventative chemotherapy for cancer earlier this year.

The Princess of Wales appeared visibly emotional on Tuesday night as she concluded her much anticipated 'Together At Christmas ' carol concert

Her visible emotions during the final carol, Hark The Herald Angels Sing, captured the depth of her journey and the significance of the evening. Holding her candle and order of service, Kate's expressions reflected both personal triumph and heartfelt gratitude, marking a powerful return to public duties. Singing alongside her children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis, the Princess’ presence exemplified her unwavering dedication to her family, her role, and the spirit of the season.

During the final carol, Hark The Herald Angels Sing, the princess appeared visibly moved as she reached the end of her service

This service, a testament to Kate’s commitment to fostering love and empathy, resonated deeply, not only for the royal family but also for the wider community. It was a shining achievement and a poignant reminder of her strength and enduring compassion.

The Princess of Wales made a triumphant return to public life with her carol service

The atmosphere at Westminster Abbey during the Together at Christmas carol concert was one of warmth and reflection, with the candlelit setting adding to the poignant mood. Kate’s powerful message at the beginning of the service set the tone for the evening, calling on everyone to "slow down and reflect on the deeper things that connect us all" and embrace "love, not fear."

The Princess of Wales has returned to screens to host her annual Together At Christmas carol concert after her toughest year yet

This annual concert not only highlighted her commitment to this tradition but also marked one of her few public appearances following her cancer treatment, as she gradually returns to her royal duties.

Kate’s heartfelt message of love and empathy resonated deeply with both the audience in the Abbey and those watching from home. Her words, which were also shared in a letter to guests and regional community services, reflected the importance of slowing down during the festive season to focus on what truly matters—the love and connections that bind people together.

Kate was joined by her supportive family - Prince William and her children George, Charlotte and Louis

Her personal journey, combined with her compassionate message, made this year’s service particularly meaningful, emphasizing the power of empathy and the spirit of Christmas.

Kate’s message at the Together at Christmas carol concert was a moving call for reflection, empathy, and connection. She encouraged people to step away from the pressures of everyday life, finding space to live with an open heart, embracing love, kindness, and forgiveness—values at the core of the Christmas spirit.

Kate (pictured left) hosted her fourth 'Together at Christmas ' concert at Westminster Abbey at the start of December, with members of the royal family such as Prince William and the Wales children Prince George, Prince Louis and Princess Charlotte in attendance

In her voice-over, Kate spoke of the profound power of the Christmas story, reminding everyone to consider the feelings of others and reflect on our shared vulnerabilities. Her words emphasized the need for empathy, both in giving and receiving, and how essential it is to support one another, especially in challenging times. She beautifully expressed how love, in all its forms, is the greatest gift we can receive—not just during the festive season, but every day.

The Princess of Wales, 42, hosted her fourth 'Together at Christmas' service at the historic church in the heart of London at the start of December

Her poignant message resonated deeply, particularly given the personal challenges Kate has faced this year. The theme of love and empathy was especially fitting, reflecting not only her own journey but the broader message of unity and compassion that transcends differences. It was a powerful reminder of the importance of love in healing and connecting people, making this year's concert even more significant.

Prince Louis and the Princess of Wales during the Together At Christmas carol service at Westminster Abbey

Kate's dedication to every detail of the Together at Christmas service was evident in her hands-on involvement throughout the planning process. From regular meetings at Windsor to personally overseeing final arrangements at Westminster Abbey, she ensured the event would be a meaningful and polished occasion.

The Prince and Princess of Wales and their children, Prince George, Prince Louis and Princess Charlotte, arrive for the Together At Christmas carol service

Her role was further supported by her family, with King Charles contributing Christmas trees to the service and Prince Louis writing a thoughtful note, showcasing the collaborative spirit of the royal family. Kate’s elegant appearance in a red Alexander McQueen coat, adorned with a black bow, paired with black Ralph Lauren boots, reflected the festive yet sophisticated atmosphere of the evening.

A sweet moment from the start of the service showed Princess Charlotte lighting her younger brother Prince Louis's candle

Kate was joined by her supportive children who have been by her side throughout her cancer battle

The service, attended by 1,600 people, was designed to highlight the importance of community and empathy, especially in the most challenging times. It served as a reminder of how much we rely on each other, and the support we give one another can make all the difference. The event also underscored the Princess’s personal commitment to fostering unity and compassion within her community and beyond.

The Waleses had the front row at the carol service, with the three children sitting in between Kate and William

The Together at Christmas service aimed to celebrate individuals across the UK who have demonstrated love, kindness, and empathy within their communities. This central theme has been a focus for Kate each year, as she strives to highlight those who embody these values, especially during difficult times. The service combined both traditional and modern elements, making it inclusive for people of all faiths and backgrounds.

The Princess of Wales called for people to 'slow down and reflect on the deeper things that connect us all' and turn to 'love, not fear' in the opening for her annual carol concert

The renowned Westminster Abbey choir performed some of the nation's favorite carols, with musical contributions from a variety of artists, including Olivia Dean, Gregory Porter, Paloma Faith, and JP Cooper. Additionally, a special piece composed by pianist Rosey Chan added a unique touch to the evening.

She appeared in positive spirits, laughing intently with singer Paloma Faith

The service also featured a curated performance by two soloists from The Royal Ballet and students from The Royal Ballet School, further enriching the program with artistic flair.

Poignant readings focused on love and empathy were delivered by distinguished speakers such as The Prince of Wales, Olympian Adam Peaty, actress Sophie Okonedo, Michelle Dockery, and Richard E. Grant.

In a symbolic gesture of light and unity, candles were lit by individuals connected to the theme, including Lindsey Burrow, the wife of rugby star Rob Burrow, who passed away from motor neurone disease, Olympic cycling champion Sir Chris Hoy, who is battling terminal cancer, and Paralympians Lizzi Jordan and Danni Khan, whose resilience and dedication continue to inspire. These personal touches contributed to the event’s deeply emotional and reflective atmosphere.

The Together at Christmas service at Westminster Abbey also highlighted the healing power of nature. The Abbey was adorned with sustainable, festive decorations and foliage, creating a serene and beautiful environment that complemented the service's message of love, kindness, and empathy.

This year, a unique "Kindness Tree" was placed outside the Abbey, allowing guests to dedicate a decoration to someone who had been a source of support in their lives, further emphasizing the themes of compassion and gratitude.

While guests awaited entry to the Abbey, they were treated to live music from young performers, including a 25-piece steel pan band and a jazz ensemble from Restore the Music, a charity that funds music education for young people across the UK.

In the front row, the Wales family, including Prince William, Kate, and their children, were seated, with Princess Anne's daughter, Zara Tindall, looking elegant in a velvet suit. The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester were seated behind the Wales family, and George Gilman, who is married to their daughter Lady Rose Windsor, was also present. Though Lady Rose was absent, George and their 14-year-old daughter, Lyla, joined the family for this special event. The atmosphere was made even more magical by the Abbey's stunning decorations, creating an unforgettable festive experience.

After Kate's opening speech at the Together at Christmas service, the broadcast was narrated by Scottish actress Kelly Macdonald. It featured three special community films that highlighted the inspiring stories of individuals and organizations that have shown immense love, empathy, and kindness in times of need.

According to Kensington Palace, the films focus on groups who were invited to attend the service, with some even performing at the event, such as the Sankofa Songsters. The films showcase:

1. Worcestershire Gingerbread Group: This film tells the story of a single mother in Worcestershire who founded the group to combat loneliness. It highlights the impact of the group in providing a supportive community for those who feel isolated.

2. Go Beyond: This film features six young carers, aged between 8 and 13, who demonstrate extraordinary empathy and dedication as they care for their families, despite their young ages. It emphasizes their selflessness and the challenges they face in supporting their loved ones.

3. Sankofa Songsters: This intergenerational choir, based in Belong Chester, brings together care home residents and young children from The Nursery in Belong. The choir showcases the power of connection across generations, with a focus on the joy and understanding that emerges from such bonds.

These films serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of empathy, kindness, and community, perfectly aligning with the themes of the service and Kate's own heartfelt message.

After Kate's opening speech at the Together at Christmas service, the broadcast was narrated by Scottish actress Kelly Macdonald. It featured three special community films that highlighted the inspiring stories of individuals and organizations that have shown immense love, empathy, and kindness in times of need.

According to Kensington Palace, the films focus on groups who were invited to attend the service, with some even performing at the event, such as the Sankofa Songsters. The films showcase:

1. Worcestershire Gingerbread Group: This film tells the story of a single mother in Worcestershire who founded the group to combat loneliness. It highlights the impact of the group in providing a supportive community for those who feel isolated.

2. Go Beyond: This film features six young carers, aged between 8 and 13, who demonstrate extraordinary empathy and dedication as they care for their families, despite their young ages. It emphasizes their selflessness and the challenges they face in supporting their loved ones.

3. Sankofa Songsters: This intergenerational choir, based in Belong Chester, brings together care home residents and young children from The Nursery in Belong. The choir showcases the power of connection across generations, with a focus on the joy and understanding that emerges from such bonds.

These films serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of empathy, kindness, and community, perfectly aligning with the themes of the service and Kate's own heartfelt message.

Kensington Palace shared that the Sankofa Songsters choir has significantly impacted its members and the community, fostering strong intergenerational connections and spreading kindness and love. The choir includes individuals from ages 2 to 100, highlighting the power of shared experiences across generations.

Additionally, it was revealed that the Princess of Wales reached out to Lady Gabriella Windsor for support in planning the Together at Christmas carol service. Lady Gabriella, who had experienced profound grief following the tragic death of her husband, financier Thomas Kingston, in February, played a key role in the service's planning.

Lady Helen Taylor and Lady Gabriella Windsor arrive for the Together At Christmas carol service at Westminster Abbey in London

Lady Gabriella's husband, Thomas Kingston, tragically passed away from a head injury in February, with a gun found near his body at his family home in the Cotswolds. Despite this loss, Lady Gabriella supported the Princess of Wales in organizing the event, which took place on December 6 at Westminster Abbey. The concert featured performances from a range of artists, including Paloma Faith, Gregory Porter, JP Cooper with the Soul Sanctuary Choir, and Olivia Dean, all contributing to the evening's theme of love, kindness, and empathy.

Kate Middleton , 42, hosted her fourth 'Together at Christmas ' service at the historic church in the heart of London at the start of December. Pictured: Gregory Porter

As he performs the Christmas anthem - written by Noël Regney and Gloria Shayne in 1962 as a plea to end the Cuban Missile Crisis - the camera pans to show an audience engrossed in his rendition

The Princess of Wales meets Gregory Porter, Olivia Dean and Paloma Faith during the carol service

The Together at Christmas carol service was a deeply meaningful and reflective event, with Kate and William joined by their children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis, who each held candles during the service, symbolizing light and unity. Other guests, including prominent members of the monarchy, also participated in this symbolic act.

Princess Charlotte, Prince Louis and the Princess of Wales during the Together At Christmas carol service at Westminster Abbey 

The service featured poignant readings from several well-known figures, including actors Richard E. Grant and Michelle Dockery, as well as Oscar-nominated actress Sophie Okonedo and Olympic gold medallist Adam Peaty. The readings added a layer of emotional depth to the service, aligning with its central theme of love, empathy, and kindness.

Special guests such as Olympic champion Sir Chris Hoy, who is terminally ill with prostate cancer, and Lindsey Burrow, widow of rugby star Rob Burrow, who passed away from motor neurone disease, also lit candles during the service. Their participation served as powerful reminders of the resilience and strength shown in times of hardship.

The event, produced by The Royal Foundation, was designed to celebrate the many individuals who offer support, comfort, and love to those in need. The service's theme, inspired by the Christmas story, highlighted the importance of empathy and the power of giving and receiving love as the greatest gift. ITV, which broadcast the service, emphasized how the Christmas story encourages reflection on the experiences of others and the human need for empathy.

The Together at Christmas carol concert marked a significant public appearance for the Wales family, as it was the first time they had been seen together since June's Trooping the Colour. Kate was joined by her supportive family, including her mother Carole, sister Pippa, and brother James, showing the strong support network around her during a challenging year.

The concert was one of the few times the mother-of-three has made a public appearance this year, after undergoing a course of preventative chemotherapy in the first half of 2024

Kate, who has been highly involved in the planning of the service, arrived early at Westminster Abbey to oversee last-minute arrangements. Her dedication to the event was evident as she took a hands-on approach, walking around to greet guests and ensuring everything went smoothly.

During the service, singer Paloma Faith expressed her sympathy for Kate, who underwent chemotherapy earlier in the year. Kate, with her characteristic grace, responded by acknowledging the hardships many have faced in the past year, including herself. She reflected on how unpredictable life can be and shared that she hadn’t anticipated the challenges she would face, but also noted the shared struggles that many attendees and viewers were facing.

For Kate, Westminster Abbey held a deeply personal connection, having attended important events there, including her wedding to Prince William in 2011 and the late Queen’s funeral in 2022. The setting added a layer of poignancy to the service, which was centered on love, empathy, and community.