In his annual Christmas message, King Charles will shine a light on the tireless efforts of healthcare workers, particularly following a year that saw both him and the Princess of Wales undergo cancer treatments. The monarch’s speech will also focus on the spirit of unity and solidarity that emerged in the aftermath of devastating riots and the tragic Southport stabbings, which claimed the lives of three young girls.
The message, filmed at the Fitzrovia Chapel in London, will reflect on both personal and societal challenges and explore how communities can come together to overcome adversity. The location, rich in history and connected to healthcare, was chosen for its reflective and tranquil atmosphere, a fitting backdrop for the King's message on resilience and support.
The chapel, a Grade II* listed building, was selected for its strong health and community ties. Located near the site of the former Middlesex Hospital, where Princess Diana opened London's first dedicated AIDS ward, the chapel was a place of solace for medical staff, patients, and the public. Carla Whalen, chair of the Fitzrovia Chapel Foundation, remarked that the building’s history and calm nature made it an ideal setting for the broadcast.
King Charles himself expressed surprise and admiration for the chapel’s beauty when he visited it ahead of the recording. The chapel’s Byzantine-inspired architecture, ornate marble decorations, and gold leaf ceiling left the monarch “absolutely bowled over,” a source shared.
The location was selected as part of the King’s desire to step outside of the royal estate for this year’s message, with the chapel meeting his criteria of having a strong health connection, fostering community ties, and offering a space of spiritual reflection. Previous Christmas messages were recorded at venues like Southwark Cathedral and Combermere Barracks, but the Fitzrovia Chapel provided a unique and meaningful backdrop for this year’s address.
The King and Princess of Wales both underwent treatments for cancer earlier this year. Charles, who was diagnosed with cancer in February, has since made a positive recovery, resuming public duties in April and continuing his engagements through the year. Princess Kate, who completed chemotherapy earlier this year, has also resumed her royal duties.
Following the broadcast, a sustainable Christmas tree adorned with eco-friendly decorations will be donated to several charities, including the Croydon BME Forum and Macmillan Cancer Support’s “Can You C Me?” project, aimed at addressing ethnic disparities in cancer care. The tree will be placed at the Royal Trinity Hospice in south London, where the Queen remains a patron.
King Charles’ message will undoubtedly resonate with many, offering a message of hope, unity, and the importance of community support in the face of adversity.
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