The Norwegian Royal Family celebrated Christmas a few days early with a Christmas service at the Royal Chapel of the Royal Palace in Oslo.
King Harald, Queen Sonja, Crown Prince Haakon, Princess Ingrid Alexandra and Prince Sverre Magnus attended the service while Crown Princess Mette-Marit rested at home after a COVID diagnosis.
Centred around a message of hope and community, Crown Prince Haakon encouraged people to help one another, saying: “For many, Christmas is a time of conflicting emotions. Some feel extra lonely, others feel that they are not enough, and many are worried about the situation in the world.”
The Crown Prince also thanked volunteers for the efforts they make: “Hundreds of thousands of volunteers across our country make an invaluable contribution to the community. You who are here today represent them all.”
Candles were lit during the service for those suffering in war and others who are alone; traditional Christmas hymns were also performed, like “Silent Night.”
The congregation consisted of the royals and around 100 volunteers from the Red Cross, the Church’s City Mission, the Salvation Army, the Blue Cross, the Church’s SOS, the Franciscan Aid, Jussbuss, Sanitetskvinnenne, Caritas, the Poor House and the Food Centre.
The Royal Family also released a festive family image, sans Mette-Marit, that was taken at Kongsseteren, where the King and Queen traditionally spend Christmas.
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