Together at Christmas

Together at Christmas carol service events in our cathedrals are shining a spotlight on local heroes and celebrating human connections this festive season – thanks to HRH The Princess of Wales.

Together at Christmas

Rochester Cathedral was privileged to host a special “Together at Christmas” Carol Service on Monday (2 December) celebrating local community heroes and the spirit of human connection this season.

The service was attended by invited guests from charities and community organisations across Kent, and was hosted by Lady Colgrain, HM Lord-Lieutenant of Kent.

The Rochester Cathedral Youth Choir provided musical accompaniment, while Oliver Dickens – the great-great-great grandson of Charles Dickens – delivered a poignant reading from “A Christmas Carol”.

Supported by The Royal Foundation, the event is one of fifteen community carol services held across the UK inspired by The Princess of Wales’ Westminster Abbey service, which will be televised on ITV1 and ITVX on Christmas Eve shining a spotlight on local heroes and celebrating the importance of community.

This Sunday  (December 8) St Albans Cathedral will host a Together at Christmas service bringing together hundreds of individuals, including those who work and volunteer for the many medical, charitable and youth organisations across Hertfordshire, and will honour individuals and organisations who have shown love, kindness, and empathy in their communities.

Representatives from the Rennie Grove Peace Hospice, West Herts Teaching Hospital NHS Trust, St John Ambulance and a patient who is receiving treatment for cancer will read lessons. Prayers will be led by volunteers from Purple Butterflies from the East and North NHS Trust, The University of Hertfordshire Chaplaincy, and the charity Stand-by-me, who offer bereavement support.

Those attending the service will include individuals and groups from across Hertfordshire who have each, in their own special way, supported others.  They have encouraged, listened, nurtured, and shown how empathy can strengthen humankind.  The carol service is a heartfelt ‘thank you’ to everyone who contributes selflessly to help those in need.

The service will combine traditional and modern elements, offering a meaningful and inclusive celebration for people of all faiths and none, and is being recorded by the BBC and Kensington Palace.

The Westminster Abbey service (held on December 6) will honour individuals and organisations across the UK that have demonstrated love, kindness and empathy.

These regional events reflect the same theme, showing the spirit of togetherness, love and hope

Amanda Berry, CEO, The Royal Foundation of The Prince and Princess of Wales, said,

‘I am delighted that The Royal Foundation is supporting 15 fantastic community carol services, bringing the spirit of ‘Together at Christmas’ to every corner of the UK this festive season.  

’These events create special moments that unite communities and recognise those who have shown exceptional compassion.  

‘Their selfless dedication has not gone unnoticed, and we are proud to honour them in this way.’

HRH The Princess of Wales’ fourth Together At Christmas service at Westminster Abbey will be televised on ITV1 and ITVX on Christmas Eve.