Duchess of Cambridge hosts Christmas Carol Service at Westminster Abbey

HRH The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge attended a carol service at Westminster Abbey on Wednesday 8th December 2021 to celebrate those who have supported their communities during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Guests from Shropshire who attended the service included Sheenagh and Harvey Unwin from Randlay who were representative of all those that had shown kindness to the vulnerable in the county during the pandemic, and David and Jodie Hart from North Shropshire.   David is a well known postman who looks out for vulnerable on his rounds.

The service, Together at Christmas, was hosted by The Duchess and was also attended by HRH Princess Beatrice of York and Mr Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi; HRH The Countess of Wessex; and Mr and Mrs Mike Tindall

The service was led by the Dean of Westminster, the Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle, who welcomed the congregation to the Abbey and pronounced the Blessing.

HRH The Duke of Cambridge and Paralympian Kim Daybell gave readings from St Luke’s Gospel.

There was music from Leona Lewis who sang O holy night; and from Ellie Goulding who sang Have yourselves a merry little Christmas.

Author and broadcaster Lemn Sissay read his own composition, commissioned for the service, reflecting on love and togetherness at Christmas.

Actor Tom Felton read A letter from a soldier to his sister at Christmas; and broadcaster Kate Garraway read Christina Rossetti’s poem Love came down at Christmas.

The Venerable Tricia Hillas, Canon Steward and Archdeacon of Westminster, gave a reflection, and led prayers at the Abbey’s nativity crib.

The service was sung by the Choir of Westminster Abbey directed by James O’Donnell, Organist and Master of the Choristers. The organ was played by Peter Holder, Sub-Organist, and before the service by Matthew Jorysz, Assistant Organist.