King Charles III has delivered his second Kings Speech on Christmas Day, in which he stressed how vital it is for “universal” values to be shared between major religions, pointing to the “increasingly tragic conflicts occurring around the world” at this time.

He also praised the many volunteers who give up their own tome to care for others, calling them the “essential backbone of our society”.

The broadcast had been recorded several weeks ago at Buckingham Palace, and included talk of protecting the planet, something very close to his heart, with him describing the on-going process as being a “spiritual duty” for all.

Earlier in the day he had accompanied the Queen at a special church service at St Mary Magdalene, in the grounds of the Sandringham estate, where much of the royal family are staying over the festive period.

In attendance were Prince and Princess of Wales, along with their children Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis; plus a little surprisingly Prince Andrew and even more unexpectedly, his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson.

Christmas Day tradition

What has now become a tradition for the reigning monarch, delivering a speech on this day was actually first introduced by King George V back in 1932. It is something the nation tune into every year and has become a staple part of the Christmas Day celebrations for many, not only in the UK, but throughout the commonwealth and around the world.

They are essentially a summing up of current issues and concerns. They allow the King or Queen of the time, to reflect on what Christmas means to them and this year was certainly no different.

“Abrahamic family of religions”

The King has long been an advocate of linking different religious communities, in the UK and abroad, therefore it was understandable that a major theme of this year’s message was of how much they have in common. He felt able to promote that despite the violence raging in the Middle East and Ukraine.

In particular he referenced what he called: “the Abrahamic family of religions”, including Judaism, Islam and Christianity. He said: “I pray that we can also do all in our power to protect each other” urging greater tolerance for people to “imagine ourselves in the shoes of our neighbours”.

Environment naturally brought up

His quest on the the protection of the environment was always going to be mentioned and he packaged it up by saying somewhat poetically: “To care for our 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 King spoke of how over the past year his heart had been warmed by countless examples of the imaginative ways in which people are caring for one another, and how they are prepared to go the extra mile to help those around them, simply because they know it is the right thing to do.

He also recalled how he and his wife were delighted when hundreds of what he called “representatives of that selfless army of people” in other words the volunteers who serve their communities, were able to join them in Westminster Abbey for their coronation, earlier this year.

Balancing act

These speeches from the monarch have to find the right balance between addressing major themes of the time, but always steering clear of potentially creating any accusing fingers of venturing into the political arena.

Royal enthusiasts out in force

Earlier on Christmas Day royal enthusiasts had lined the route to the church in the Sandringham Estate, hoping to catch sight of the family who take a short walk from the main House, with tourists from the US very much in evidence.

Surprise showing

For many, seeing Ms Ferguson amongst the party was a real turn-up, given that she hasn’t been present for more than 30 years.

However, it is understood that she has been invited back into the heart of the Royal Family, after receiving breast cancer treatment earlier this year.