King Charles III attended an Advent service at Westminster Abbey, joining senior Christian clerics from the United Kingdom and Middle East to mark the spiritual preparation for Christmas. The King, a committed Anglican Christian, contributed a written foreword to the service emphasizing themes of light, hope, and peace.
The service brought together church leaders from across the UK and Middle East, alongside leaders of other faiths and charity representatives. The congregation gathered for prayer, reflection, and music during this period of Advent, which Christians observe as a time of preparation ahead of Christ's birth.
Royal message on faith and community
In his foreword to the official order of service, the King expressed joy at the gathering. He wrote: «It is a great joy to gather with you in the most glorious setting of Westminster Abbey as we celebrate the light, hope and, above all, the peace of this season of Advent. This period is one of preparation, of readying ourselves and looking forward to the wonder of Christ's birth. Today, we gather for prayer, reflection and music, and to celebrate the Good News in which all Christians rejoice: those around us, and those in areas where it is not easy to live out one's faith. I am so pleased to be joined by church leaders from across the UK and Middle East, leaders of other faiths, charity representatives, and so many of you who contribute to your communities in myriad ways.»
The King's participation continues a long-standing tradition of royal engagement with Christian communities. When he served as Prince of Wales, Charles regularly visited Armenian Christians, Greek Orthodox communities, and other religious groups each December to spend time with them ahead of Christmas.
Note: This article was created with Artificial Intelligence (AI).
