King Charles praises ‘selfless’ people who form ‘backbone of society’ in Christmas speech

King Charles commended the efforts of volunteers, hailing them as a "selfless army of individuals" who constitute the "essential backbone of our society." In his second Christmas address, the monarch expressed his joy at the presence of numerous volunteers and their representatives during his coronation in May. He emphasized that their attendance underscored the true meaning of the coronation as a collective call to serve one another, love, and care for all.

Making an implicit reference to the increasing issue of homelessness and the compassionate housing of displaced individuals, including Ukrainians, King Charles drew attention to a part of the Jesus story where "Mary and Joseph were offered shelter in their hour of need by strangers."

Last Christmas, the king highlighted the challenges of the cost of living crisis and the "great anxiety and hardship" faced by many struggling to meet basic needs. In November, he initiated the Coronation Food Project, distributing surplus food to those affected by food poverty. In this year's Christmas speech, he emphasized the need to build on existing support mechanisms for those less fortunate.

Addressing the global climate crisis, King Charles lamented the world's "dreadfully far off track" from key climate targets outlined in the 2015 Paris Agreement. He called for "meaningful change" at the Cop28 climate summit, stressing the imperative to protect the planet "for the sake of our children’s children."

The king also acknowledged the ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine, expressing hope for collective efforts to protect each other during times of tragic conflict. Recognizing various faiths, he spoke about how the "great religions of the world" celebrate festivals with special meals, emphasizing the responsibility of "people of all faiths and of none" to care for the natural world.

The Christmas speech took place in Buckingham Palace’s center room, opening onto the balcony overlooking the Mall. Earlier in the day, the royal family attended the traditional Christmas Day church service at the Sandringham estate.

During the service, royal fans gathered as the Prince and Princess of Wales, accompanied by their children George, Charlotte, and Louis, walked hand in hand with the king and queen. About 1,000 residents greeted them, having waited for hours outside the estate on Christmas morning.

Sarah, Duchess of York, the former wife of the disgraced Duke of York, participated in the service, seemingly marking her return to the heart of the family. The day's festivities culminated in the Queen’s sister describing Camilla as Charles’s "rock" and the "yin" to his "yang" in a relationship that works "brilliantly." A documentary, "Charles III: The Coronation Year," set to air on BBC One, will showcase rehearsals for the coronation and moments involving William, Kate, and their children greeting the monarch.

राजा चार्ल्स ने क्रिसमस भाषण में 'बेहद समर्पित' लोगों की प्रशंसा की।