King Charles marks significant period for Christianity in new message of celebration

King Charles is celebrating the beginning of Advent Season with a new message shared by Buckingham Palace.

Published via the Palace’s official Instagram, the King’s message was part of the Order of Service at Westminster Abbey, held on December 10.

“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,” the message began.

For context, Advent marks a period of “waiting and a moment of great celebration” in the Christian calendar, per the Church of England’s official website — “Advent marks the beginning of the church year. It is a time for reflection in darkness, for renewal of hope and for a movement towards a beginning.”

While Charles continued in his statement, “This period 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 message concluded.

It was further reported that while attending the Advent service at Westminster Abbey, the King “remembered the plight of Christians facing persecution around the world,” according to the BBC.

King Charles has been noted for his recent tilt towards not only promotion of the Christian faith, but also encouraging unity between all of the various religious backgrounds, notably joining Pope Leo XIV for a historic moment of prayer during his trip to the Vatican in October.