Princess Kate is hoping to end the year on a positive note as the royal family prepares to mark their first Christmas without a beloved member.
Kensington Palace announced the return of Catherine’s Together at Christmas fifth carol service, which is set to be a bittersweet event for the family.
While the royals have closed many painful chapters this year – namely the ousting of the disgraced Andrew and his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson – they will also be missing Katharine, Duchess of Kent.
The Princess of Kate has added a special tribute to the late royal to include her in the celebrations, as the Kent family continues to grieve her loss.
As guests arrive at Westminster Abbey on November 5th, they’ll be treated to the musical stylings of young musicians supported by Future Talent, a charity co-founded by Katharine after she had stepped back from royal duties.
The charity supports underprivileged young people with musical education and opportunities to excel in the competitive field.
Katharine passed away on September 4 surrounded by family at Kensington Palace and her funeral was held nearly 10 days later.
After her passing, the Prince and Princess of Wales honoured her in a heartfelt statement and praised her dedicated service “including through her love of music. She will be a much missed member of the family”.
The main theme of this year’s Together at Christmas carol service is “love in all forms”, whether “within families, through friendships, across communities, or even through powerful moments of connection with strangers”.