king's speech 2023 christmas

King Charles Says the Christmas Story Reminds Us of the Importance of Protecting the Earth

The King delivered his second Christmas Broadcast from the Centre Room at Buckingham Palace, with the Palace balcony in the background.

King Charles has long advocated for the importance of protecting our planet. And today, he used his second Christmas speech as monarch to point out that the message of living in harmony with nature and protecting the Earth can also be found in the Christmas story.

“During my lifetime I have been so pleased to see a growing awareness of how we must protect the Earth and our natural world as the one home which we all share,” the King said during his speech. “I find great inspiration now from the way so many people recognize this—as does the Christmas story, which tells us that angels brought the message of hope first to shepherds. These were people who lived simply amongst others of God’s creatures. Those close to nature were privileged that night.”

The King’s speech was delivered from the Centre Room at Buckingham Palace , with the Palace balcony in the background. In keeping with the theme of conserving nature, the Christmas tree shown was a living tree for the first time, which Buckingham Palace said will be replanted after the broadcast. It was decorated with natural and sustainable decorations including hand turned wood, dried oranges, brown glass, pinecones and paper.

Produced by ITV, the King's broadcast also featured footage of members of the royal family carrying out official engagements and making public appearances throughout the year. Included in the footage were Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, shown volunteering at a Scout hut with their parents in May and attending Kate’s Westminster Abbey carol service in December .

The King’s Coronation was mentioned in the broadcast, although only briefly, with the King saying, “My wife and I were delighted when hundreds of representatives of that selfless army of people—volunteers who serve their communities in so many ways and with such distinction—were able to join us in Westminster Abbey for the Coronation earlier this year. They are an essential backbone of our society. Their presence meant so much to us both and emphasized the meaning of Coronation itself: above all, a call to us all to serve one another; to love and care for all.”

Instead of focusing on his Coronation , Charles chose to emphasize the themes of faith and service. “Because out of God’s providence we are blessed with much, and it is incumbent on us to use this wisely,” he said. “However, service to others is but one way of honoring the whole of creation which, after all, is a manifestation of the divine. This is a belief shared by all religions. To care for this creation is a responsibility owned by people of all faiths and of none. We care for the Earth for the sake of our children’s children.”

The final image of the broadcast was the King giving a final wave to the public from the Palace balcony after the Coronation.

Read the King’s 2023 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, even on this special day. This care and compassion we show to others is one of the themes of the Christmas story, especially when Mary and Joseph were offered shelter in their hour of need by strangers, as they waited for Jesus to be born.

Over this past year my heart has been warmed by countless examples of the imaginative ways in which people are caring for one another—going the extra mile to help those around them simply because they know it is the right thing to do: at work and at home; within and across communities.

My wife and I were delighted when hundreds of representatives of that selfless army of people—volunteers who serve their communities in so many ways and with such distinction—were able to join us in Westminster Abbey for the Coronation earlier this year. They are an essential backbone of our society. Their presence meant so much to us both and emphasized the meaning of Coronation itself: above all, a call to us all to serve one another; to love and care for all.

Service also lies at the heart of the Christmas story—the birth of Jesus who came to serve the whole world, showing us by his own example how to love our neighbor as ourselves. Throughout the year, my family have witnessed how people of all ages are making a difference to their communities. This is all the more important at a time of real hardship for many, when we need to build on existing ways to support others less fortunate than ourselves.

Because out of God’s providence we are blessed with much, and it is incumbent on us to use this wisely. However, service to others is but one way of honoring the whole of creation which, after all, is a manifestation of the divine. This is a belief shared by all religions. To care for this creation is a responsibility owned by people of all faiths and of none. We care for the Earth for the sake of our children’s children.

During my lifetime I have been so pleased to see a growing awareness of how we must protect the Earth and our natural world as the one home which we all share. I find great inspiration now from the way so many people recognize this—as does the Christmas Story, which tells us that angels brought the message of hope first to shepherds. These were people who lived simply amongst others of God’s creatures. Those close to nature were privileged that night...

And at a time of increasingly tragic conflict around the world, I pray that we can also do all in our power to protect each other. The words of Jesus seem more than ever relevant: ‘do to others as you would have them do to you.’ Such values are universal, drawing together our Abrahamic family of religions, and other belief systems, across the Commonwealth and wider world. They remind us to imagine ourselves in the shoes of our neighbors, and to seek their good as we would our own.

So on this Christmas Day my heart and my thanks go to all who are serving one another; all who are caring for our common home; and all who see and seek the good of others, not least the friend we do not yet know. In this way, we bring out the best in ourselves. I wish you a Christmas of ‘peace on Earth and goodwill to all’, today and always.

Town & Country Contributing Editor Victoria Murphy has reported on the British Royal Family since 2010. She has interviewed Prince Harry and has travelled the world covering several royal tours. She is a frequent contributor to Good Morning America. Victoria authored Town & Country book The Queen: A Life in Pictures , released in 2021. 

Royal Family News

Prince George Is Reportedly Learning How to Fly

Prince Harry Reflects on Life as He Turns 40

Harry and Meghan Love These Children's Books

Princess Beatrice Steps Out in a Zara Jacket

Princess Diana Outfit Season Is Finally Here

Meghan's Two Elegant Outfits at Bookstore Opening

Meghan Markle's Surprise Appearance

New Details on King Charles's Trip to Australia

William Speaks Out After Kate's Big Health Update

Kate's Return to Work vs. Charles's Return

All the Hidden Symbolism in Kate Middleton's Video

New Video Offers Rare Look Inside Anmer Hall

• Election 2024
• Entertainment
• Newsletters
• Photography
• AP Investigations
• AP Buyline Personal Finance
• AP Buyline Shopping
• Press Releases
• Israel-Hamas War
• Russia-Ukraine War
• Global elections
• Asia Pacific
• Latin America
• Middle East
• Election results
• Google trends
• AP & Elections
• College football
• Auto Racing
• Movie reviews
• Book reviews
• Financial Markets
• Business Highlights
• Financial wellness
• Artificial Intelligence
• Social Media

King Charles III’s Christmas message reflects a coronation theme and calls for planet’s protection

Britain’s King Charles III poses for a photo, during the recording of his Christmas message at Buckingham Palace, in London, Saturday, Dec. 7, 2023. (Jonathan Brady/Pool Photo via AP)

• Copy Link copied

LONDON (AP) — King Charles III reflected his coronation theme of public service Monday in a Christmas message that he connected to the health of the planet and wars that are raging.

In a prerecorded video shot with him standing beside a Christmas tree in Buckingham Palace, the king spoke of the message of Jesus’ life in serving those less fortunate as he honored the “selfless army” that forms the “backbone of our society” helping others.

“My heart has been warmed by countless examples of the imaginative ways in which people are caring for one another, going the extra mile to help those around them simply because they know it is the right thing to do,” he said.

It was the king’s second Christmas speech since he ascended the throne after his mother, Queen Elizabeth II , died in September 2022, but the first since his coronation in May when he was officially crowned in a medieval ceremony rich in pageantry and pomp.

Charles, who has long campaigned for environmental causes and recently told foreign leaders at the COP28 Climate Meeting that achieving climate goals remain “dreadfully far off track,” said he was encouraged to see awareness growing of the need to protect the earth.

“To care for this creation is the responsibility owned by people of all faiths and of none,” he said. “We care for the earth for the sake of our children’s children.”

In his own gesture towards sustainability, the evergreen next to him was bedecked in natural decorations made from wood, dried oranges, pinecones and paper. The tree, the first live one at the palace, was to be replanted after the holidays.

As Charles spoke, video showed highlights from his past year, including helping plant a tree during a trip to Kenya — his first state visit as monarch with Queen Camilla to a Commonwealth country.

It also featured footage from the coronation in which he declared, “I come not to be served but to serve.” Another clip showed his eldest son, Prince William, heir to the throne, along with his wife, Kate, the princess of Wales, and their three children carrying out that mission by helping to rebuild a Scout hut during a day of service that followed the coronation.

His estranged son, Prince Harry, who left the ranks of the senior royals when he moved to the U.S. in 2020 with this wife, Meghan, wasn’t shown in the video. Harry, who showed up alone at the coronation and was seated in the third row, inflamed tensions with his best-selling memoir, “Spare,” published early in the year that accused his brother of beating him up.

At a time of “increasingly tragic conflict around the world,” a reference to wars in Ukraine and between Israel and Hamas, Charles invoked the words of Christ to “do unto others as you would have them do to you.”

“They remind us to imagine ourselves in the shoes of our neighbors and to seek their good as we would our own,” he said. “My heart and my thanks go to all who are serving one another, all who are caring for our common home and all who see and seek the good of others, not least the friend we do not yet know.”

Read the full transcript of King Charles III's Christmas message

King Charles III delivered his first Christmas message as monarch on Sunday.

The pre-recorded speech, which aired at 15:00 GMT (10:00 EST) on Christmas Day, saw the new king honour the legacy of his late mother, Queen Elizabeth II, who died on Sept. 8.

• King Charles salutes late Queen Elizabeth II, public workers in speech

Charles delivered the message from the historic St. George's Chapel at Windsor Castle in England, where both of his parents and many other royals are buried. It was the first televised royal Christmas address not to be delivered by Queen Elizabeth, who initially did so 1957.

Here is a full transcript of King Charles' speech:

"I'm standing here in this exquisite chapel of St. George at Windsor Castle, so close to where my beloved mother the late Queen is laid to rest with my dear father. I'm reminded of the deeply touching letters, cards and messages which so many of you have sent my wife and myself, and I cannot thank you enough for the love and sympathy you have shown our whole family.

• Royal Dispatch newsletter: Sign up for exclusive insights on the monarchy

Christmas is a particularly poignant time for all of us who have lost loved ones. We feel their absence at every familiar turn of the season, and remember them in each cherished tradition.

In the much-loved carol 'O little town of Bethlehem,' we sing of how, 'in thy dark streets shineth the everlasting light.' My mother's belief in the power of that light was an essential part of her faith in God, but also have faith in people, and it is one which I share with my whole heart. It is a belief in the extraordinary ability of each person to touch with goodness and compassion the lives of others and to shine a light in the world around them.

This is the essence of our community, and the very foundation of our society. We see it in the selfless dedication of our armed forces and emergency services, who work tirelessly to keep us all safe, and who perform so magnificently as we mourn the passing of our late Queen. We see it in our health and social care professionals, our teachers, and indeed all those working in public service whose skill and commitment are at the heart of our communities. And at this time of great anxiety and hardship, be it for those around the world facing conflict, famine or natural disaster, or for those at home finding ways to pay their bills to keep their families fed and warm, we see it in the humanity of people throughout our nations and the Commonwealth, who so readily respond to the plight of others.

I particularly want to pay tribute to all those wonderfully kind people who so generously give food or donations, or that most precious commodity of all, their time, to support those around them in greatest need. Together with the many charitable organizations, which do such extraordinary work in the most difficult circumstances, our churches, synagogues, mosques, temples, and gurdwaras have once again united in feeding the hungry, providing love and support throughout the year. Such heartfelt solidarity is the most inspiring expression of loving our neighbour as ourself. The Prince and Princess of Wales recently visited Wales, shining a light of practical examples of this community spirit.

Some years ago, I was able to fulfill a lifelong wish to visit Bethlehem and the Church of the Nativity. There I went down into the chapel of the manger, and stood in silent reverence by the silver star that is inlaid on the floor and marks the place of our Lord Jesus Christ's birth. It meant more to me than I can possibly express, to stand on that spot where as the Bible tells us, the light that has come into the world was born.

While Christmas is of course a Christian celebration, the power of light overcoming darkness is celebrated across the boundaries of faith and belief. So whatever faith you have, or whether you have none, it is in this life-giving light and with the true humility that lies in our service to others, that I believe we can find hope for the future. Let us therefore celebrate it together and cherish it always. With all my heart I wish each of you a Christmas of peace, happiness, and everlasting light."

CTVNews.ca Top Stories

Polls close for closely watched byelections in Montreal and Winnipeg

The polls have closed and votes are being counted in two crucial federal byelections that are being closely watched by political parties.

GoFundMe cancels fundraiser for Ontario woman charged with spraying neighbour with a water gun

A Simcoe, Ont., woman charged with assault with a weapon after accidentally spraying her neighbour with a water gun says GoFundMe has now pulled the plug on her online fundraiser.

Freeland says she is 'not going anywhere' after Conservatives call her 'phantom finance minister'

Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland declared she is 'not going anywhere' when pushed by the Conservatives on Monday about her future as finance minister.

Suspect in apparent assassination attempt on Trump was near golf course for 12 hours

The man suspected in an apparent assassination attempt targeting Donald Trump camped outside a golf course with food and a rifle for nearly 12 hours.

Body recovered from B.C. lake after unclothed man leads investigators to crash site

Mounties are investigating a fatal crash north of Whistler, B.C., after an unclothed man who was found along the side of the road led police to a pickup truck submerged in a lake with one occupant still inside.

'Never seen anything like this': Humpback whale catches unsuspecting seal off Vancouver Island

A Vancouver Island nature photographer says he has never seen anything like what his camera captured on a recent whale-watching excursion off Victoria.

'Not that simple': Trump drags Canadian river into California's water problems

Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump promised "more water than you ever saw" to Californians, partly by tapping resources from a Canadian river.

Mortgage loan rules are changing in Canada

Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland has announced changes to mortgage rules she says are aimed at helping more Canadians to purchase their first home.

First teen sentenced in Kenneth Lee case gets 15 months probation

The first teenager to be sentenced in the death of a Toronto homeless man will not face further time in custody, and instead participate in a community-based program.

N.B. RCMP issue emergency alert, search for person carrying firearm with 'dangerous intent'

RCMP in New Brunswick have issued an emergency alert about a person believed to be armed.

Two arrested in connection with case of missing Halifax teenager: police

Two men have been arrested in connection with the disappearance of a Halifax teenager who went missing more than two years ago.

'Oh, he's still alive': Sask. pharmacy student caught snooping on medical records of 114 people

A fourth-year pharmacy student doing an internship at a Regina drug store was caught snooping on the medical records of 114 people who were not in their care.

Who is Ryan Wesley Routh? What's known so far about the Trump assassination attempt suspect

Ryan Wesley Routh portrayed himself online as a man who built housing for homeless people in Hawaii, tried to recruit fighters for Ukraine to defend itself against Russia, and described his support and then disdain for Donald Trump, even urging Iran to kill him.

Massive pipeline fire burning near Houston began after a vehicle struck a valve, officials say

A massive pipeline explosion that sent a towering flame over neighbourhoods near Houston for hours on Monday began after a vehicle drove through a fence and struck an above-ground valve, officials said.

Brazilian candidate clobbered with chair in chaotic Sao Paulo mayoral debate

A televised debate among election rivals for mayor of Sao Paulo, Brazil's biggest city, descende into chaos when one struggling candidate whacked another with a chair and was expelled.

Democracy declined for 8th straight year around the globe, institute finds

Last year had the worst decline in credible elections and parliamentary oversight in almost a half-century, driven by government intimidation, foreign interference, disinformation and the misuse of artificial intelligence in campaigns, an organization promoting democracy said Tuesday.

Central Europe flooding leaves 16 dead in Romania, Poland, Czech Republic and Austria

Exceptionally heavy rainfall pounding Central Europe has prompted deadly flooding in the region, with four new deaths reported Monday in Poland, three in Czech Republic and one in Romania.

'We don't have much time': Parliament's fall sitting begins with plenty of political posturing

The fall sitting of Parliament began Monday with plenty of political posturing given the new minority dynamics and the threat of an early general election looming overhead.

Singh challenged on carbon tax stance as MPs return to Ottawa

NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh still won't say whether his party would scrap the federal carbon pricing program if elected, while Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre is increasing his calls for the NDP to vote non-confidence in the Liberals and trigger a 'carbon tax election.'

Pregnancy changes the brain more than previously known, study finds

Researchers have created one of the first comprehensive maps of how the brain changes throughout pregnancy, substantially improving upon understanding of an understudied field.

Less-invasive approach to lung cancer to be introduced in New Brunswick

New Brunswick will soon introduce liquid biopsy – a less-invasive approach to lung cancer testing – through a new collaboration announced Monday morning in Moncton.

Weight loss drug liraglutide shows promise for younger children with obesity, study finds

Children who used the weight loss drug liraglutide in a late-stage trial lost significantly more weight than children who got a placebo, according to a new study.

Elon Musk deletes post about Harris and Biden assassination after widespread criticism

Elon Musk has deleted a post on his social media platform X in which he said “no one is even trying to assassinate” U.S. President Joe Biden and Vice-President Kamala Harris in the wake of an apparent assassination attempt on former president Donald Trump while he was playing golf.

Physics breakthrough brings nuclear clock closer to reality

Picture a clock ticking so steadily that it doesn’t lose a second, even after running for 1 billion years. Scientists are now closer than ever to realizing that level of timekeeping precision, new research has revealed.

A passing comet could shine as bright as Venus. Here are the best viewing times

This eye-catching celestial event is around the corner and will appear in the skies this fall.

Entertainment

Jane's Addiction cancels tour in the wake of an onstage fight

The alternative rock band Jane's Addiction has scuttled its latest tour following an onstage scuffle between lead singer Perry Farrell and guitarist Dave Navarro.

Canadian writer Anne Michaels among 6 Booker Prize finalists

Canadian writer Anne Michaels is among six finalists shortlisted for the prestigious Booker Prize for fiction this year for her novel, 'Held.'

Tito Jackson, member of beloved pop group the Jackson 5, dies at 70

Tito Jackson, one of the brothers who made up the beloved pop group the Jackson 5, has died at age 70.

Rebooked your flight? Here are your options after Air Canada reached a tentative deal with its pilots

Air Canada is offering passengers the option to change flights back. Here's what you need to know.

Amazon tells workers they must come to the office 5 days a week

Amazon is demanding that its corporate employees return to the office five days a week, a significant change from its current pandemic-era hybrid policy that requires them to be in the office just three days a week.

Politics likely pushed Air Canada toward deal with 'unheard of' gains for pilots

Politics, public opinion and salary hikes south of the border helped push Air Canada toward a deal that secures major wage gains for pilots, experts say.

A New York woman is challenging Miss America, Miss World rules banning mothers from beauty pageants

A New York woman is challenging the longstanding rules of Miss America and Miss World that disqualify mothers from their beauty pageants.

'The right thing to do': Good Samaritan builds new cart for Moncton man

A good Samaritan in New Brunswick replaced a man's stolen bottle cart.

Young family from northern Ontario wins $70 million Lotto Max jackpot

It's been a whirlwind of joyful events for a northern Ontario couple who just welcomed a baby into their family and won the $70 million Lotto Max jackpot last month.

Former Roughrider Ben Fairbrother dead after motorcycle crash in Edmonton

A former Saskatchewan Roughrider has died in a motorcycle crash in Edmonton.

Penguins re-sign Crosby to two-year extension that runs through 2026-27 season

Sidney Crosby plans to remain a Pittsburgh Penguin for at least three more years.

Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau's Calgary memorial removed

After 13 days of Calgarians leaving memorabilia, purple Gatorade and Skittles on the steps of the Saddledome in memory of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau, officials are now beginning work to remove the display.

'It's a pretty unique car': Classic car in the family since 1958 stolen from Winnipeg garage

A Winnipeg man is asking for help after a classic car that has been a part of his family since the 1950s was stolen from his garage.

Ontario driver caught going more than 100 km/h in school zone

A 22-year-old driver was caught going more than 100 km/h in a school zone in York Region on Monday.

First look: All-electric Dodge Chargers coming off line at Windsor Assembly Plant

Stellantis’ Windsor Assembly Plant has given a first look at the new Dodge Chargers coming off the line. It is preparing for the upcoming Dodge Charger Daytona production launch.

Local Spotlight

Oppenheimer star David Krumholtz dishes on his time filming in Winnipeg

David Krumholtz, known for roles like Bernard the Elf in The Santa Clause and physicist Isidor Rabi in Oppenheimer, has spent the latter part of his summer filming horror flick Altar in Winnipeg. He says Winnipeg is the most movie-savvy town he's ever been in.

'Craziest thing I've ever seen': Elusive salamanders make surprising mass appearance in Edmonton area

Edmontonians can count themselves lucky to ever see one tiger salamander, let alone the thousands one local woman says recently descended on her childhood home.

'A nightmare': Nature-goers stranded in B.C. backcountry after bridge washes out

A daytrip to the backcountry turned into a frightening experience for a Vancouver couple this weekend.

B.C. woman reveals greatest life lesson after celebrating 100th birthday

If you take a look to the right of Hilda Duddridge’s 100th birthday cake, you’ll see a sculpture of a smiling girl extending her arms forward.

Sisters finally see the Canadian 'aviation artifact' built by their father nearly 90 years ago

Two sisters have finally been reunited with a plane their father built 90 years ago, that is also considered an important part of Canadian aviation history.

The debate over taking horns off Viking statue in Gimli

A Facebook post has sparked a debate in Gimli about whether to make a cosmetic change to its iconic statue.

Collector scores 'holy grail' at B.C. Pokemon shop

A Pokémon card shop in Richmond is coming off a record-setting month, highlighted by a customer opening a pack to discover one of the most sought-after cards in the world.

Tensions grow with Fraser Health as Surrey ER doctors cite 'toxic' workplace, 'failing their patients'

Emergency physicians at Surrey Memorial Hospital have grown so frustrated with Fraser Health, they have penned a letter to the CEO of the health authority calling for "new leadership" and citing a "decline in patient care" as they struggle to stabilize the situation and serve patients.

Critics slam B.C. premier's involuntary care announcement, cite lack of evidence

The B.C. premier’s announcement to introduce involuntary care for people with serious addiction and mental health issues is being met with pushback from critics who say the decision isn’t evidence-based and will cause more harm.

Families read victim impact statements after West Vancouver wedding crash driver pleads guilty

It’s been more than two years since two women attending a West Vancouver wedding were killed when a neighbour drove her Range Rover into an ornamental gate, sending rocks and debris flying into a crowd of guests.

Jane's Addiction cancels Toronto show, rest of the tour due to frontman's 'continuing pattern of behaviour'

Jane's Addiction has cancelled the rest of its tour, two days before its Toronto concert, following an on-stage scuffle between bandmates.

Ontario MPP says OHIP coverage for prostate cancer testing will save lives

An Ontario politician is renewing calls on the government to cover the cost of “lifesaving” prostate-specific antigen testing for all residents under the provincial health plan.

Toronto police officer seriously injured responding to person in crisis call

A Toronto police officer was rushed to the hospital with serious injuries while responding to a call on Monday afternoon.

Dozens rally to save Green Line as council considers project's future

About 100 people took to the steps of Calgary city hall on Monday to try to keep the Green Line LRT project on track.

'We could have been dead': Calgary dog attack victims push for stricter penalties

Victims hurt in two separate Calgary dog attacks are pushing for the city to hold dog owners more accountable after violent incidents.

Solar flare could cause strong northern lights in Alberta on Monday

Northern lights could be visible within Alberta's largest cities Monday night and early Tuesday morning, says a group of photographers passionate about chasing the phenomenon.

18-year-old man dead, second person injured following shooting in Ottawa's Centretown neighbourhood

Ottawa police say Quentin Dorsainvil, of Ottawa, was killed in a shooting Sunday night in Ottawa's Centretown neighbourhood. He was a young football player with the Kanata Knights, the team's president said.

Planned opening of Stittsville school delayed again due to 'outstanding deficiencies'

A new high school in Stittsville that was set to open Tuesday will remain closed for at least another day after families were told 'outstanding deficiencies' are keeping the school from receiving an occupancy permit.

Ottawa's new 3-item garbage limit begins in 2 weeks: Here's what you need to know

Starting September 30, all households will be limited to three items of curbside waste every two weeks. Residents with garbage collection this week will be the first households to face the new three-item limit when the new rules take effect.

'Bonjour': Quebec launches new $2.5 million ad campaign promoting French language

The Quebec government is launching yet another campaign to promote the use of French and this time, it's going after a typical Montreal lingo, that's apparently a cause for concern for the survival of French.

Black Lives Ruined: The effects of racial profiling by police

Racial profiling is a systemic problem plaguing Montreal police, according to a judgement by Superior Court Justice Dominique Poulin. But what does that mean in the lives of the victims?

Refugee advocate calls Alberta premier's 'shared values' comments regarding asylum seekers stigmatizing

Premier Danielle Smith is facing criticism for a statement she made Thursday, saying that the province should welcome asylum seekers with the "shared values" of Albertans.

Man dies in head-on collision on northern Alberta highway

A man is dead after a head-on collision Friday in northern Alberta.

Halifax neighbourhood caught off guard by new Pallet village construction

Construction has begun on a new Pallet shelter in Halifax, leaving area residents and local leaders surprised and upset after discovering the project without any prior notice.

Manitoba NDP MLA booted from caucus due to business partner acting as Peter Nygard's lawyer

Manitoba’s NDP government has removed Mark Wasyliw, MLA for Fort Garry, from the party’s caucus after the party discovered his business partner is working as Peter Nygard’s criminal defense lawyer.

Child luring arrest made in Regina

Saskatchewan’s Internet Child Exploitation (ICE) unit has arrested a 39-year-old Regina man following an investigation into child luring.

WRPS warn gun violence on the rise in Waterloo Region

The Region of Waterloo has already matched the total number of shootings in all of 2023 – and it’s only September.

Crash leaves car on its roof in Uptown Waterloo

Waterloo Regional Police are investigating a collision that left one vehicle on its roof in Uptown Waterloo.

'I understand those fears': Saskatoon downtown shelter proponents answer questions from the public

Saskatoon’s administration defended its choice of a downtown shelter site in a public information session at city hall on Monday, and the city expects it will move ahead.

Man and two adult sons identified as homicide victims in Lloydminster, Sask.

The victims of a triple homicide in a city that straddles the Alberta-Saskatchewan boundary have been identified as a man and his two adult sons.

'Not Brad Wall's Sask. Party': Two former MLAs to run under the Saskatchewan United banner

Two former Sask. Party MLAs say they intend to run under the Saskatchewan United Party banner in the upcoming fall election.

Northern Ontario

'This is a bit of a flash point': TVDSB interim education director welcomes ministry audit

Local teachers’ union rep says an Education Ministry audit could answer important questions about Thames Valley District School Board operations.

Fatal crash between SUV and mobility scooter

Around 10:30 a.m. on Monday, first responders were sent to the intersection of Blake Street East and Gibbons Street after getting a 911 call about a collision.

Body identified after washing up on Lake Huron shore eight years ago

Provincial police have identified a man whose body was found on a Lake Huron beach eight years ago. The remains of 56-year-old Garnet Nelson of Alberta were found on the shoreline near Port Albert on Oct.15, 2016.

Body of 12-year-old missing boy recovered from Georgian Bay

Ontario Provincial Police say the body of a 12-year-old boy who went missing while swimming at Huronia Park in Penetanguishene on Sunday was found.

Driver suffers life-threatening injuries after crashing into tree in Springwater Township

One person has been airlifted via air ambulance with life-threatening injuries following a collision in Springwater Township.

OPP seeks person responsible for 'senseless destruction' of flower displays

Provincial police are appealing to the public for help identifying the person(s) responsible for what they describe as an act of "senseless destruction" of flower displays in Huntsville.

'They didn't think about the consequences of their actions': University of Windsor alumni revoke their financial support in wake of pro-Palestinian agreements

In July, the University of Windsor signed two agreements – one with the demonstrators, and another with the Students’ Alliance – to end a nine-week protest occupation on campus. Now, some alumni are withholding their financial support as a result.

New Windsor/Essex Acute Care Hospital gets $15-million gift

The Solcz Family Foundation is giving a $15 million gift to the New Windsor/Essex Acute Care Hospital.

ADUs and tiny homes helping housing crisis

The popularity of additional dwelling units (ADUs)is growing but not everyone knows ADUs come in different forms.

Vancouver Island

B.C. lightkeepers' jobs in jeopardy as coast guard plans to automate 2 stations

Calls are growing for the federal government to pause plans to de-staff two lighthouses on Vancouver Island over fears the move could put mariners and hikers in danger.

Who foots the bill for BC United staffers' severance payments?

The emergence of a number of incumbent MLAs running now as Independents isn’t the only consequence of last month’s collapse of the BC United Party.

Son charged with B.C. woman's murder: RCMP

More than a year after a missing Kamloops, B.C., woman’s body was found, her son has been arrested and charged with her murder, Mounties announced Friday.

Woman stabbed during daylight Kelowna home invasion: RCMP

A woman suffered life-threatening injuries after being stabbed during a home invasion in Kelowna, according to authorities.

Dog mauled to death in B.C. yard after 3 pit bulls jump fence: police

A 12-year-old collie was killed by three pit bulls in the B.C. Interior Sunday morning, according to authorities.

Lethbridge residents used 16 per cent less water this summer than last

The City of Lethbridge says water usage this summer was lower than expected.

Man wanted on warrants in Lethbridge arrested, faces 16 new charges

Lethbridge police say a man wanted on warrants fled from officers in a vehicle and barricaded himself for hours in a home in the southern Alberta city.

Lethbridge police locate man wanted on outstanding warrants

Lethbridge police have located and arrested a man wanted on a number of outstanding warrants.

Sault Ste. Marie

American driver charged after northern Ont. traffic stop

Provincial police in Elliot Lake arrested a Michigan driver on Saturday afternoon for operating a vehicle while prohibited.

No $75M Lotto Max jackpot winner but draw sees one new Ont. millionaire, 4 Encore winners

Ontario does have a new millionaire after Friday night’s historic $75 million Lotto Max draw – but they only won $1 million. The record-breaking jackpot was not won meaning the prize money will roll over into the next draw.

Newfoundland and Labrador monitoring rise in whooping cough cases: medical officer

Newfoundland and Labrador's chief medical officer is monitoring the rise of whooping cough infections across the province as cases of the highly contagious disease continue to grow across Canada.

Dispute over unrecognized Inuit group halts major conference for Canadian North

A 16-year-old biennial event aimed at fostering business in the country's eastern Arctic and northern regions has been cancelled indefinitely as a dispute unfolds between Inuit in Canada and a Labrador group claiming to share their heritage.

Cow cuddling: Why a Newfoundland farm is offering quality time with these 'gentle creatures'

Jim Lester’s farm hopped on the cow-cuddling trend in early August, and his time slots have been pretty well sold out ever since.

Shopping Trends

The Shopping Trends team is independent of the journalists at CTV News. We may earn a commission when you use our links to shop.  Read about us.

Editor's Picks

These silk & snow sheets stopped me and my partner from arguing over bedding (and they're on sale right now), 14 products that'll help you live your best, coziest life this fall, school has officially begun, and here are a few essential supplies that won't break the bank, 14 pieces of fall decor that’ll give your home autumnal vibes, these smart cleaning products will make doing your chores way easier, our guide to the best smart thermostats in canada in 2024 (and where to get them), 15 of the best birthday gifts to give this month, 18 top-notch presents and gift add-ons that anyone would love to receive, 15 of the best gifts to give a one-year-old for their first birthday, the best gels, pomades, and waxes that'll keep your hair in place, these beauty and skincare products will help you create a flawless base, these 12 setting sprays will actually keep your makeup from budging, from wayfair to walmart: here are the best deals you'll find online this weekend, from anthropologie to amazon: here are the best deals you'll find online this weekend, beauty week has officially begun on amazon canada — here are the best deals you can find, stay connected.

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

• British Royal Family

King Charles Continues Royal Tradition with His Second Christmas Speech — Here's What He Said

The King encouraged service as he acknowledged that it is a "time of real hardship for many" during the holiday broadcast

Stephanie Petit is a Royals Editor, Writer and Reporter at PEOPLE.

Jonathan Brady - WPA Pool /Getty

King Charles  is at the center of a royal holiday tradition for the second time.

Continuing the tradition of the British monarch giving a speech that is broadcast on Christmas Day, King Charles' pre-recorded address was shown at 3 p.m. local time on Monday. This year, the King delivered the message from Buckingham Palace.

King Charles, 75, centered his speech on service to others as he acknowledged that it is a difficult time for many families.

"Over this past year, my heart has been warmed by countless examples of the imaginative ways in which people are caring for one another — going the extra mile to help those around them simply because they know it is the right thing to do: at work and at home; within and across communities," he said. "My wife and I were delighted when hundreds of representatives of that selfless army of people — volunteers who serve their communities in so many ways and with such distinction — were able to join us in Westminster Abbey for the coronation earlier this year. They are an essential backbone of our society. Their presence meant so much to us both and emphasized the meaning of coronation itself: above all, a call to us all to serve one another; to love and care for all. Service also lies at the heart of the Christmas story — the birth of Jesus who came to serve the whole world, showing us by his own example how to love our neighbor as ourselves."

The monarch continued, "Throughout the year, my family have witnessed how people of all ages are making a difference to their communities. This is all the more important at a time of real hardship for many when we need to build on existing ways to support others less fortunate than ourselves."

King Charles also mentioned it is a time of "increasingly tragic conflict around the world."

"I pray that we can also do all in our power to protect each other," he said. "The words of Jesus seem more than ever relevant: 'Do to others as you would have them do to you.' Such values are universal, drawing together our Abrahamic family of 5 religions, and other belief systems, across the Commonwealth and wider world. They remind us to imagine ourselves in the shoes of our neighbors, and to seek their good as we would our own."

King Charles concluded, "So on this Christmas Day my heart and my thanks go to all who are serving one another; all who are caring for our common home; and all who see and seek the good of others, not least the friend we do not yet know. In this way, we bring out the best in ourselves. I wish you a Christmas of peace on Earth and good will to all, today and always."

For the first time this year , King Charles delivered his remarks beside a living tree, marking his ongoing environmental efforts. According to Buckingham Palace, the Christmas tree is decorated with "natural and sustainable decorations," with some highlights including hand-turned wood, pinecones, brown glass, dried oranges and paper. It will be replanted.

Samir Hussein/WireImage

The tradition of the monarch's Christmas message was started by King Charles' great-grandfather King George V in 1932. While the speech was first broadcast over radio, Queen Elizabeth  appeared in the first televised broadcast in 1957. "She was a one-take wonder — she was extraordinary," said a former palace staffer.

For many Britains (including the royal family!), it is a staple of their holiday to gather around the TV to watch the speech.

However, the annual broadcast did not take place in 1936 (when King Edward VIII abdicated), 1938 (when King George VI did not give an address) and 1969 (when Queen Elizabeth opted for a written message instead after feeling that between Charles' investiture as the Prince of Wales and the documentary Royal Family , there had been enough television appearances for one year).

King Charles gave his first Christmas address last year just months after the death of his mother, and much of his speech centered around Queen Elizabeth's memory.

"I am standing here in this exquisite Chapel of St. George at Windsor Castle, so close to where my beloved mother, the late Queen, is laid to rest with my dear father," the King said in the 2022 speech. "I am reminded of the deeply touching letters, cards and messages which so many of you have sent my wife and myself, and I cannot thank you enough for the love and sympathy you have shown our whole family."

He continued, "Christmas is a particularly poignant time for all of us who have lost loved ones. We feel their absence at every familiar turn of the season and remember them in each cherished tradition."

Can't get enough of PEOPLE's Royals coverage?  Sign up for our free Royals newsletter  to get the latest updates on Kate Middleton, Meghan Markle and more!

King Charles continued his speech, "In the much-loved carol 'O Little Town of Bethlehem,' we sing of how 'in thy dark streets shineth the everlasting light.' My mother's belief in the power of that light was an essential part of her faith in God, but also her faith in people — and it is one which I share with my whole heart. It is a belief in the extraordinary ability of each person to touch, with goodness and compassion, the lives of others, and to shine a light in the world around them. This is the essence of our community and the very foundation of our society."

He then praised the "selfless dedication" of those in the armed forces, emergency personnel, healthcare workers and public services professionals such as teachers.

"I particularly want to pay tribute to all those wonderfully kind people who so generously give food or donations, or that most precious commodity of all — their time — to support those around them in greatest need, together with the many charitable organizations which do such extraordinary work in the most difficult circumstances," he said.

On Monday, King Charles and  Queen Camilla  led the royal family in their annual tradition of going to church on Christmas Day. They attended the service at the Church of St. Mary Magdalene in Norfolk, near the royal residence of Sandringham .

The British royals traditionally gather at Sandringham each Christmas. On December 24, they have afternoon tea before exchanging inexpensive gag gifts . After their church outing on Christmas, they head back to Sandringham House for a traditional feast of turkey before watching the monarch's Christmas speech broadcast on TV.

Related Articles

Watch CBS News

King Charles gathers with royal family, gives Christmas address urging people to care for each other and the Earth

By Paula Cohen

Updated on: December 25, 2023 / 12:00 PM EST / CBS News

Britain's King Charles III spoke of the importance of human kindness and urged people to care for one another and our planet in his annual Christmas address. He and other members of the royal family gathered at their estate in Sandringham for their traditional holiday celebration.

It was Charles'  second Christmas message since he became king following the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth , in September 2022, and the first since his coronation ceremony  in May.

In remarks filmed at Buckingham Palace earlier this month and broadcast Monday across the U.K. and Commonwealth nations, he spoke of remembering "those who are no longer with us," and praised "those whose work of caring for others continues, even on this special day." 

"Over this past year my heart has been warmed by countless examples of the imaginative ways in which people are caring for one another — going the extra mile to help those around them simply because they know it is the right thing to do," he said.

He did not mention other members of the royal family by name, but made one point on behalf of himself and his wife, Queen Camilla , saying they were delighted that members of a "selfless army" of community volunteers were able to join them at Westminster Abbey for the coronation.

Service, he said, "lies at the heart of the Christmas story," and is a value "all the more important at a time of real hardship for many, when we need to build on existing ways to support others less fortunate than ourselves."

In addition to serving one other, Charles, a longtime environmentalist, said humanity is called upon to care for all of Creation. 

"We care for the Earth for the sake of our children's children," he said. "During my lifetime I have been so pleased to see a growing awareness of how we must protect the Earth and our natural world as the one home which we all share."

Royal family's Christmas in photos

Charles, Camilla and others in the royal family attended services Christmas morning at St. Mary Magdalene Church in Sandringham, the estate in Norfolk where they traditionally spend the holiday.

The Prince and Princess of Wales, William and Kate, and their children, George, Charlotte and Louis, walked right behind Charles and Camilla and greeted well-wishers who lined the path. The king's younger son, Harry, and wife Megan, who now live in California, were not present.

Prince Andrew made an appearance with the royal family despite the scandal surrounding his association with Jeffrey Epstein and the  legal settlement he reached over allegations of sex abuse last year. 

His ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York, also joined the family for the walk to church this Christmas — her first time doing so in over 30 years, BBC News reported . She was treated for breast cancer earlier this year. 

Andrew and Sarah's daughters,  Princess Beatrice  and  Princess Eugenie , and their husbands attended as well. See more photos from the royal family's Christmas below.

• King Charles III
• British Royal Family
• King Charles

Paula Cohen is the senior managing editor of CBSNews.com, where she oversees coverage of breaking news and stories on a wide range of topics from across the U.S. and around the world.

More from CBS News

Royal family shares birthday messages for Prince Harry's 40th

Iraq unveils tribute to "Guardians of Truth," including 2 of CBS News' own

Death toll blamed on storms, flooding in Central Europe rises to 14

Funeral held for Turkish-American activist Aysenur Eygi

King Charles III Christmas Address

King Charles III delivered his 2023 Christmas address from Buckingham Palace. He reflected on the themes of service and caring for the Earth.

This program is not available due to rights restrictions.

Related video.

King Charles III Christmas Message

King Charles III gave his first Christmas Day message as head of the British monarchy. He once again thanked everyone fo…

President and First Lady Arrive at Buckingham Palace

President Trump and first lady Melania Trump met Prince Charles and his wife, Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall at Buckingham…

Queen Elizabeth II Christmas Message

Queen Elizabeth II delivered her annual Christmas message from Buckingham Palace in London. The tradition of the Roya…

Queen Elizabeth II delivered her annual Christmas message from London.

King Charles III talks 'increasingly tragic conflict around the world' in Christmas message

LONDON (AP) — King Charles III reflected his coronation theme of public service Monday in a Christmas message that he connected to the health of the planet and wars that are raging.

In a prerecorded video shot with him standing beside a Christmas tree in Buckingham Palace, the king spoke of the message of Jesus' life in serving those less fortunate as he honored the "selfless army" that forms the "backbone of our society" helping others.

"My heart has been warmed by countless examples of the imaginative ways in which people are caring for one another, going the extra mile to help those around them simply because they know it is the right thing to do," he said.

It was the king's second Christmas speech since he ascended the throne after his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, died in September 2022, but the first since his coronation in May when he was officially crowned in a medieval ceremony rich in pageantry and pomp.

Charles, who has long campaigned for environmental causes and recently told foreign leaders at the COP28 Climate Meeting that achieving climate goals remain "dreadfully far off track," said he was encouraged to see awareness growing of the need to protect the earth.

"To care for this creation is the responsibility owned by people of all faiths and of none," he said. "We care for the earth for the sake of our children's children."

In his own gesture towards sustainability, the evergreen next to him was bedecked in natural decorations made from wood, dried oranges, pinecones and paper. The tree, the first live one at the palace, was to be replanted after the holidays.

As Charles spoke, video showed highlights from his past year, including helping plant a tree during a trip to Kenya — his first state visit as monarch with Queen Camilla to a Commonwealth country.

It also featured footage from the coronation in which he declared, "I come not to be served but to serve." Another clip showed his eldest son, Prince William, heir to the throne, along with his wife, Kate, the princess of Wales, and their three children carrying out that mission by helping to rebuild a Scout hut during a day of service that followed the coronation.

His estranged son, Prince Harry, who left the ranks of the senior royals when he moved to the U.S. in 2020 with this wife, Meghan, wasn't shown in the video. Harry, who showed up alone at the coronation and was seated in the third row, inflamed tensions with his best-selling memoir, "Spare," published early in the year that accused his brother of beating him up.

At a time of "increasingly tragic conflict around the world," a reference to wars in Ukraine and between Israel and Hamas, Charles invoked the words of Christ to "do unto others as you would have them do to you."

"They remind us to imagine ourselves in the shoes of our neighbors and to seek their good as we would our own," he said. "My heart and my thanks go to all who are serving one another, all who are caring for our common home and all who see and seek the good of others, not least the friend we do not yet know."

Biggest moments from the coronation: King Charles and Camilla crowned, Prince Harry arrives

• UK Politics
• News Videos
• Paris 2024 Olympics
• Rugby Union
• Sport Videos
• John Rentoul
• Mary Dejevsky
• Andrew Grice
• Sean O’Grady
• Photography
• Theatre & Dance
• Culture Videos
• Fitness & Wellbeing
• Food & Drink
• Health & Families
• Royal Family
• Electric Vehicles
• Car Insurance Deals
• Lifestyle Videos
• Hotel Reviews
• News & Advice
• Simon Calder
• Australia & New Zealand
• South America
• C. America & Caribbean
• Middle East
• Politics Explained
• News Analysis
• Today’s Edition
• Home & Garden
• Broadband deals
• Fashion & Beauty
• Travel & Outdoors
• Sports & Fitness
• Climate 100
• Sustainable Living
• Climate Videos
• Solar Panels
• Behind The Headlines
• On The Ground
• Decomplicated
• You Ask The Questions
• Binge Watch
• Travel Smart
• Watch on your TV
• Crosswords & Puzzles
• Most Commented
• Newsletters
• Ask Me Anything
• Virtual Events
• Wine Offers
• Betting Sites

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged in Please refresh your browser to be logged in

Watch: Charles delivers King’s Speech from Buckingham Palace

Article bookmarked.

Find your bookmarks in your Independent Premium section, under my profile

Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more

Watch as King Charles III delivers the annual King’s Speech on Monday, 25 December.

His Majesty delivered the second Christmas message of his reign from a Buckingham Palace room decorated with a living Christmas tree.

The King, like Queen Elizabeth II , writes his Christmas broadcasts.

He followed his mother’s well-established template last year, with a personal reflection on the year focusing on current issues with a Christian framework.

The living tree seen in today’s broadcast will be replanted in a nod to the King’s environmental interests.

It comes after he delivered a speech at the recent Cop28 UN Climate Change summit.

Charles’s message was delivered in the palace room that leads on to the royal residence’s iconic balcony, where members of the royal family have made historic appearances such as after Charles’s coronation or Trooping the Colour celebrations.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies