Queen’s Christmas message: light will triumph
The Queen used her Christmas message Friday to proclaim that light can triumph over darkness in these perilous times — and to comment on the joys of having a new great-granddaughter, Princess Charlotte.
Elizabeth acknowledged the difficult times the world faces but said there is no cause for despair, no reason to give up hope. The Queen’s speech has been a tradition since Elizabeth first delivered a Christmas message live on radio in 1952.
“It is true that the world has had to confront moments of darkness this year, but the Gospel of John contains a verse of great hope, often read at Christmas carol services: ‘The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.’”
On a lighter note, she remarked on the birth of Charlotte to Prince William and his wife, Kate, in May.
“One of the joys of living a long life is watching one’s children, then grandchildren, then great-grandchildren, help decorate the Christmas tree. And this year my family has a new member to join in the fun,” she said.
The senior royals usually spend the Christmas holidays at Sandringham, a sprawling estate in Norfolk, 175 kilometres north of London. They usually exchange gifts on Christmas Eve and attend a church service on the grounds before enjoying a gala lunch and, sometimes, a walk in the woods.
This year Princess Charlotte and “big” brother Prince George, 2, did not attend the traditional Christmas Day service at St. Mary Magdalene Church.
The Queen, in a festive red coat, arrived in a Bentley to lead the family to the service amid some sprinkles of rain.
Prince Charles and his wife, Camilla, were among the royals attending as some 1,000 well-wishers gathered outside.