LONDON — King Charles III is set to deliver his annual Christmas message, where he will focus on the dedication of health workers. This comes at the end of a challenging year for both the King and the Princess of Wales, who have faced their own health battles.
The broadcast will take place on Christmas Day afternoon, and it has been recorded at the Fitzrovia Chapel in London. This chapel holds historical significance, as it was once part of the Middlesex Hospital, where Princess Diana inaugurated London’s first dedicated AIDS ward. The chapel is beautifully designed in the Gothic Revival style, adorned with a stunning gold leaf ceiling featuring over 500 stars.
Carla Whalen, chair of the Fitzrovia Chapel Foundation, described the space as one that embodies calmness and reflects themes of health and care, making it a fitting choice for the King’s message.
Millions across the UK and the Commonwealth will tune in to hear the King’s thoughts. In line with his goal to connect with the community, Charles chose a location outside the royal estates for this year’s message—a significant departure from tradition. The last time a royal Christmas message was recorded in a public setting was back in 2006 by Queen Elizabeth II.
The criteria for choosing the chapel included its connection to health, presence in the community, and its role as a place of solace and reflection.
This marks the King’s third Christmas message since he took the throne following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II in September 2022. This year’s message will carry additional weight as it follows the King’s recent cancer diagnosis, which he received in February. This illness led to a brief withdrawal from public engagements, but he gradually returned to his duties, showing a resilient spirit during a recent trip to Australia with Queen Camilla.
The royal family has faced a tough year. Shortly after King Charles began his treatment, the Princess of Wales announced her own cancer diagnosis, which kept her away from public engagements for much of the year while she underwent chemotherapy.
In her Christmas carol service broadcast, Kate reflected on the love and support she has received, emphasizing the importance of empathy and the need for one another during challenging times.
Queen Camilla has also faced health issues, dealing with a persistent chest infection that has kept her from attending several events, including a recent remembrance service.
As for their holiday plans, the royal family, including Prince William, Kate, and their three children, will celebrate Christmas Day at Sandringham Estate in eastern England. Notably absent will be Prince Andrew, as UK media reports suggest that this decision is intended to avoid further embarrassment for the monarchy, following troubling news about his connections to a suspected Chinese spy.
