This Christmas, King Charles will address the nation from a historic chapel, highlighting healthcare workers and community resilience.
London: This year, King Charles is shaking things up a bit. Instead of the usual royal estate backdrop, he’ll be delivering his Christmas Day speech from the Fitzrovia Chapel. It’s a former hospital chapel, and it’s pretty special.
He’s doing this while still undergoing treatment for cancer, which makes it even more meaningful. The speech will focus on the hard work of healthcare workers and celebrate communities coming together, especially after the tragic stabbings in Southport.
The chapel itself has a rich history. It was part of the old Middlesex Hospital, where Princess Diana opened the first dedicated AIDS ward in London. It’s a beautiful spot, with stunning architecture and a peaceful vibe.
Charles recorded his message earlier this month, and it’s one of the few times a royal has used a location outside the royal estate for such an important address. The late Queen did it a couple of times, but it’s still a rare move.
Carla Whalen, who’s involved with the chapel, mentioned that it’s a place for calm reflection and health, making it a perfect choice for the King’s message. He wanted a site that connected to health and had a strong community feel.
Interestingly, he chose the chapel without even visiting it first! But when he arrived, he was genuinely impressed by its beauty. He was curious about the different types of marble used in the chapel, which shows how much he appreciated the place.
Charles has been open about his health journey, having been diagnosed with cancer earlier this year. Thankfully, his treatment is going well, and he’s been able to return to public duties, including a recent tour in the southern hemisphere.
After the broadcast, the Christmas tree from the chapel will be donated to a local charity, which is a lovely gesture. It’s all about giving back and supporting the community, especially during the festive season.