King Charles III has called on people to help those less fortunate during economic hardship and global conflict through his Christmas Day message.
He also paid tribute to volunteers, charity workers and people working over the holidays in roles caring for others in his second Christmas message since becoming king.
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“This is all the more important at a time of real hardship for many, when we need to build on existing ways to support others less fortunate than ourselves,” King Charles said.
Breaking from the longstanding tradition of royal seasonal messages, dating back to a radio speech by his great-grandfather George V in 1932, Charles presented his message next to a living Christmas tree, a first in royal history.
Buckingham Palace assured the tree would be replanted, aligning with Charles’ extensive environmental advocacy.
The tree was adorned with eco-friendly decorations, including pine cones and paper, underscoring the monarch’s commitment to sustainable practices.
From the Centre Room at the palace, with its view of the renowned balcony where the royal family makes public appearances on special occasions, Charles reinforced the importance of caring for the planet for the benefit of future generations.
“During my lifetime I have been so pleased to see a growing awareness of how we must protect the earth and our natural world as the one home we all share,” Charles said.
The 75-year-old monarch has prayed for people to “do all in our power to protect each other.”
The royal family marked Christmas Day by attending the traditional festival church service on the King’s Sandringham estate in Norfolk.
Enthusiastic royal supporters assembled as the Prince and Princess of Wales strolled hand in hand with their children—Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis—from Sandringham House en route to St Mary Magdalene Church.
Following behind were the king and Queen Camilla, warmly welcomed by approximately a thousand local residents. Many had patiently waited for hours on Christmas morning, eager to catch a glimpse of the royal family.
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