In a powerful annual address, King Charles III has used his 2025 Christmas message to highlight the enduring power of unity and community resilience in the wake of recent terror attacks in Sydney and the United Kingdom.
A Message Forged in Adversity
The monarch's broadcast, delivered from the historic Westminster Abbey, paid direct tribute to the sacrifice and courage shown by communities in Sydney's Bondi Beach and in Manchester, England. His words came against a backdrop of recent violence targeting the Jewish community in both nations.
Just weeks before the festive season, Sydney was rocked by a shooting at a Hanukkah event on its iconic Bondi Beach. Father Sajid Akram and his son Naveed Akram allegedly opened fire, resulting in the deaths of 15 people and leaving 40 others injured.
Meanwhile, in the UK, Walid Saadaoui and Amar Hussein were found guilty of planning what police described as a potential gun attack that could have been the deadliest in the nation's history, also aimed at the Jewish community.
Learning from Pilgrimage and the Past
King Charles framed his message around the concept of pilgrimage, describing it as a timely reminder to learn from history while moving forward. "It is about journeying forward into the future while also journeying back to remember the past and learn from its lessons," he stated.
He referenced personal and national milestones, including his and Queen Camilla's state visit to meet the newly elected Pope Leo at the Holy See. He also honoured the 80th anniversary of the Allied victories in Europe and Japan during World War II, drawing parallels to modern challenges.
"The courage and sacrifice of our servicemen and women and the way communities came together in the face of such great challenge carry a timeless message for us all," the King reflected.
A Timeless Call for Hope and Unity
The core of the sovereign's address was a plea for solidarity and shared values. "In this with the great diversity of our communities we can find the strength to ensure that right triumphs over wrong," he urged.
His message extended beyond historical reflection to acknowledge contemporary heroes: current veterans and humanitarian workers operating in global conflict zones. "As we hear of division both at home and abroad, they are the values of which we must never lose sight," King Charles emphasised.
He poignantly noted the youth of many who have fallen in service, moved by the ages on war cemetery gravestones—"often only 18, 19, or 20 years of age."
The broadcast was underscored by the poignant performance of the Royal Opera House's Songs for Ukraine Chorus, adding a layer of global resonance to the theme of peace.
Concluding with a heartfelt seasonal wish, King Charles told viewers, "With these words and my whole heart, I wish you all a most peaceful and very happy Christmas."
