(UK, 26th) – King Charles III of the United Kingdom delivered his Christmas address on the 25th, calling on people to show "compassion and reconciliation" at a time when the world is facing "division."
The 77-year-old monarch’s speech, pre-recorded at Westminster Abbey, was broadcast on British television on the afternoon of the 25th.
The King reflected on his earlier speech this year marking the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II and the Normandy landings, stating that Britons should "never forget" the values of "communities coming together in the face of such enormous challenges."
He said: “Whenever I meet with people of different faiths, I am encouraged to hear how much we have in common, and our shared desire for peace and deep respect for all life.”
“When we see divisions at home and abroad, these are values we must never overlook… With the great diversity within our communities, we can find strength to ensure justice triumphs over evil. In my view, we need to cherish the values of compassion and reconciliation, just as our God does.”
In addition, after King Charles III’s address, a Ukrainian choir took to the stage to perform. In his speech, King Charles III also expressed his consistent support for Ukraine, and offered condolences for violent incidents such as the Bondi Beach shooting in Australia, the conflict in Gaza, and attacks on synagogues in the UK.