December 23rd 2024.
Buckingham Palace announced that King Charles would be delivering his annual Christmas Day message from a church that has strong connections to the medical community. This is a departure from the usual tradition of recording the message at either Buckingham Palace or Windsor Castle. The change in location is due to the King's ongoing cancer treatment, which was first revealed to the public in February.
At 76 years old, the monarch has been battling an unspecified form of cancer and returned to his public duties in April. Just last week, a palace source shared with CNN that his treatment has been progressing positively and will continue into the new year. This news brings hope to the nation as they eagerly await the King's message.
The annual festive broadcast is normally recorded at one of the royal estates, but this year, King Charles chose to film it at Fitzrovia Chapel in central London. This historic chapel, known for its beautiful Byzantine-inspired architecture, was previously a hospital chapel until its demolition in 1924. It has since been restored and is now a place for people of all faiths, or no faith, to come together in reflection, discovery, and celebration.
The location of the message was confirmed by Buckingham Palace on Monday afternoon, following its initial report by The Daily Telegraph. This is the first time in over a decade that the address will not be recorded at a royal residence. The last time this happened was in 2006, when the late Queen Elizabeth II recorded her message at Southwark Cathedral.
Fitzrovia Chapel holds a special connection to the royal family, as King Charles' grandfather, the Duke of York, laid the foundation stone for the building in 1928. He later returned to help open the chapel in 1935. The chapel was also restored between 2013 and 2015, making it a fitting location for the King's message.
The decision to film the message at Fitzrovia Chapel reflects the King's strong spirituality. It is also a symbolic choice, as both the King and his daughter-in-law, Catherine, Princess of Wales, have faced their own health challenges this year. This message will be a testament to their strength and resilience.
Traditionally, the monarch's speech is recorded earlier in December and broadcast on television and radio at 3pm on Christmas Day. But for those who don't want to miss a moment of the message, the 9News app is available for download on the Apple App Store and Google Play. Stay updated on all the latest news, sports, politics, and weather, and receive notifications straight to your smartphone.
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