King's speech in full as Charles urges 'care and compassion' for people and the planet
25.12.2023 - 15:53
/ dailyrecord.co.uk
King Charles delivered his annual Christmas message to the nation this afternoon, where he called on people to show "care and compassion" for each other as well as for our planet.
It was the monarch’s second festive broadcast, as he gave a speech in 2022 following the death of his mother, the Queen. During his message last year, the King reflected on the death of Queen Elizabeth II, after her 70-year reign.
This year, Charles urged everyone to show kindness to one another and highlighted the important themes of the Christmas story. He said his "heart was warmed" by stories of caring and compassion over the past 12 months, praising Brits for "going the extra mile" to help those in need.
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Known as an environmentalist, the King took some time during his speech to highlight the importance of protecting the planet, which he said was "a responsibility owned by people of all faiths and of none".
And he said that he found "great inspiration" from the fact that many more people now recognise the need to save our natural world.
He concluded his message by saying that by caring for others, we can all "bring out the best in ourselves".
Here is the King’s Christmas broadcast in full:
“Many of the festivals of the great religions of the world are celebrated with a special meal. A chance for family and friends to come together across generations; the act of sharing food adding to conviviality and togetherness.
“For some, faith will be uppermost in their hearts. For others, it will be the joy of fellowship and the giving of presents. It is also a time when we remember those who are no longer with us and think also of those whose work of caring for others continues,