Kate planned carol service with Lady Gabriella Windsor
public mediaThe Princess of Wales planned this year’s Carol Service at Westminster Abbey with the help of the recently widowed Lady Gabriella Windsor.
Lady Gabriella, whose husband Thomas Kingston took his own life in February, helped choose the musical acts at the annual Christmas event.
The BBC understands King Charles’ second cousin is enjoying her role in the service and was delighted to join the service after a difficult year.
The service on December 6 this year marks Catherine’s fullest return to royal duties after completing chemotherapy. The event honors individuals who demonstrate love, kindness and empathy for their community.
public mediaThe Princess of Wales invited Lady Gabriella to take part in events over the summer and Catherine is understood to be extremely grateful for her contribution.
Lady Gabriella is the daughter of Prince Michael and Princess Michael of Kent. Prince Michael, 81, is a grandson of King George V and a cousin of the late Queen Elizabeth II.
Lady Gabriella’s husband, Financier Thomas Kingston dies of head injury at his parents’ home in the Cotswolds. In October, the coroner concluded that he took his own life at the age of 45.
At the time of his death, Gabriella and his family paid tribute to Mr Kingston, saying he was “an outstanding man who brightened the lives of all who knew him”.
public mediaThe Christmas message at this year’s ceremony was about preaching “love, not fear”.
“Love is the light that shines even in our darkest times,” the princess wrote in a letter to her guests.
It marks the end of a difficult year for her and her family, with both Catherine and King Charles undergoing cancer treatment.
public mediaPrince and Princess of Wales Their children also joined in Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis at the ceremony.
The 1,600-strong congregation all held candles at the service, which will be broadcast on ITV on Christmas Eve.
The world-famous Abbey Choir performed several carols, and the event also featured Paloma Faith, Gregory Porter, Olivia Dean and singer-songwriter JP Morgan, who collaborated with Soul The Shelter Choir performs together.
Actor Richard E. Grant, Olympic gold medalist swimmer Adam Peaty and “Downton Abbey” star Michelle Dockery delivered the readings.
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public mediaIt will screen three films about people and organizations who inspire and comfort others in times of need.
In a pre-recorded opening address, Catherine will read an excerpt from a letter she wrote about love and empathy, which is included in the event’s order of service.
She would say: “The Christmas story encourages us to consider the experiences and feelings of others.
“It also reflects on our own vulnerabilities, reminding us of the importance of giving and receiving empathy, and how much we need each other despite our differences.
“Above all, it encourages us to turn to love, not fear. The love we show ourselves and others. The love that listens with empathy, the love that is kind and understanding, the love that forgives, and the love that is for others.” Bring joy and hope. “
