How Diana’s faith drove her charity work
Princess’s deep Christian values and compassion inspired much of her life, reveals ‘Songs of Praise’
DIANA, Princess of Wales, had more of a Christian faith than was widely believed, a Songs of Praise special will claim, as it explores the inspiration behind her charity work.
The long-running Sunday afternoon programme is to air a special episode exploring the late Princess’s religion next Sunday.
In it, friends will describe how she had “stronger faith than people give her credit for”. Aled Jones, the presenter, will also recall how he was invited to sing for her personally in her Kensington Palace living room, while the congregation of All Saints Church, Northamptonshire, near her family home of Althorp, sing favourite hymns.
One contributor is Mike Whitlam, former director general of the British Red Cross who worked with the Princess on campaigns including her famous landmine trip to Bosnia. Saying he had been asked to speak to many outlets about the 20th anniversary, he disclosed he had said yes to Songs of Praise because of its religious focus.
“I think she had a stronger faith than people give her credit for,” he said, adding he believed that religious conviction helped her to persevere with her charity work. “She wanted to put love where there was hatred, and make a huge difference to people’s lives so that they could live a better life,” he said.
“When you talk to people about making the world a better place, there are not many people who think it’s doable. She did.”
Tracy Borman, joint chief curator of Historic Royal Palaces, told the programme that Diana’s compassion and charity work “of course absolutely reflects very Christian values too”.
Due for broadcast next Sunday, it is one of a handful of further documentaries about Diana, Princess of Wales, involving her sons.
Following an ITV 90-minute special, in which the Duke of Cambridge and Prince Harry shared intimate memories of their mother, the brothers will also contribute to a BBC documentary about the week between her death and funeral. Also due for broadcast on Sunday, it will see the two princes share their memories of those seven days. Songs of Praise – Celebrating Diana will be broadcast on Sunday, Aug 27, at 4pm on BBC One. Songs of Praise
‘She wanted to put love where there was hatred, and make a difference so that people could live a better life’