(MENAFN- Live Mint) In his annual Christmas Day speech, King Charles III notably excluded mentions of his son Prince Harry, his wife Meghan Markle, and his brother Prince Andrew. The King's 76th Christmas message, which was pre-recorded from the Fitzrovia Chapel in London, focused on celebrating the resilience of UK communities during recent riots and offering thanks to medical staff who supported him and Princess Catherine during his cancer treatment.
While the speech included references to Prince William and other key members of the Royal Family, the absence of Prince Harry , Meghan Markle , and Prince Andrew was glaring.
Royal expert Dr. Tessa Dunlop, as reported by Mirror UK, interpreted the omission as a clear indication that King Charles has firmly decided to prioritize the strength of his immediate family over those who have distanced themselves from the royal fold.
"The King has clearly made up his mind about how to 'act for the good of all,'" Dr. Dunlop was quoted as commenting by the news report, noting that the focus was on highlighting the Royal Family's strengths rather than any perceived weaknesses. This omission suggests King Charles's intent to emphasize unity and strength within the monarchy as the country and the world head into a challenging year.
King Charles III pays tribute to Commonwealth veterans in Christmas Day message
King Charles III honored the sacrifices of service members from across the Commonwealth during World War II in his heartfelt Christmas Day broadcast. The monarch, in his customary address, marked the 80th anniversary of the D-Day Landings, a pivotal moment in the Allied Forces' victory against Nazi Germany.
A tribute to the D-Day veterans
Opening his speech, the 76-year-old king reflected on the bravery and selflessness displayed by the generation of servicemen and women who contributed to the D-Day operation in 1944. "Earlier this year, as we commemorated the 80th Anniversary of D-Day, the Queen (Camilla) and I had the enormous privilege of meeting, once again, the remarkable veterans of that very special generation who gave of themselves so courageously, on behalf of us all," said Charles.
He continued, "Listening to these once-young service men and women touched us deeply as they spoke of their comrades, drawn from across the Commonwealth, who never returned and who now rest peacefully where they made the ultimate sacrifice. Their example of service and selflessness continues to inspire, across the generations."
Personal reflections and gratitude
The King also expressed personal gratitude in his address, particularly for the medical professionals who supported him and his family through challenging times. "From a personal point of view, I offer special, heartfelt thanks to the selfless doctors and nurses who, this year, have supported me and other members of my family through the uncertainties and anxieties of illness, and have helped provide the strength, care and comfort we have needed," he said. He also extended his thanks to those who offered "kind words of sympathy and encouragement."
This Christmas message was filmed at the Fitzrovia Chapel in London, marking the first time a British monarch's message has been filmed outside a royal residence since 2006, when Queen Elizabeth II filmed her message at Southwark Cathedral.
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The King emphasized the importance of community and service across the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth, especially in light of recent events. Reflecting on the anti-immigrant riots that shook the UK in August, Charles expressed a sense of pride in how communities united in the aftermath. "I felt a sense of pride when communities came together in its aftermath with a spirit of harmony and to 'repair'... to repair not just buildings, but relationships. And, most importantly, to repair trust," he stated.
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He also acknowledged the ongoing challenges faced by communities worldwide. "On this Christmas Day, we cannot help but think of those for whom the devastating effects of conflict – in the Middle East, in Central Europe, in Africa and elsewhere – pose a daily threat to so many people's lives and livelihoods," he said.“The example that Jesus gave us is timeless and universal. It is to enter the world of those who suffer, to make a difference to their lives and so bring hope where there is despair.”
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Earlier in the day, the King and Queen Camilla were joined by other senior royals, including Prince William and Kate Middleton , along with their three children-Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis-for the traditional Christmas Day service at St. Mary Magdalene Church in Sandringham. Crowds gathered eagerly to witness the royal family's customary walk to the church, a highlight of the royal Christmas celebrations.
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