03 Dec 2024
St Albans Cathedral will join communities across the UK in hosting one of 15 ‘Together at Christmas’ community carol services – part of a national initiative inspired by the Princess of Wales to celebrate love, empathy and community spirit this festive season.
Sunday’s service will take place at 6pm, and bring together hundreds of individuals, including those who work and volunteer for the many medical, charitable and youth organisations across the county. Supported by the Royal Foundation, it will honour individuals and organisations who have shown love, kindness, and empathy in their communities.
Those reading a lesson include representatives from Rennie Grove Peace Hospice, West Herts Teaching Hospital NHS Trust, St John Ambulance, and a patient who is receiving treatment for cancer.
Prayers will be led by volunteers from Purple Butterflies from the East and North NHS Trust, The University of Hertfordshire Chaplaincy, and the charity Stand-by-me, who offer bereavement support.
Those attending the service will include individuals and groups from across Hertfordshire who have each, in their own special way, supported others. They have encouraged, listened, nurtured, and shown how empathy can strengthen humankind. The carol service is a heartfelt ‘thank you’ to everyone who contributes selflessly to help those in need.
The service will offer a meaningful and inclusive celebration for people of all faiths and none, and is being recorded by the BBC and Kensington Palace.
Robert Voss CBE CStJ, Lord Lieutenant of Hertfordshire and The Dean of St Albans, Jo Kelly-Moore said: “We are delighted to have been chosen by The Royal Foundation to host a service at St Albans Cathedral, and to recognise and thank those who work so hard across Hertfordshire to help those in need.
“Professionals, volunteers, friends, and those who look out for others ensure that individuals feel valued and cared for and are helped in their time of need. Everyone is very welcome to attend this very special service.”
Photo by Toby Shepheard
