LONDON - Princess Kate of Wales will make her most significant return to royal duties next month, hosting the annual Christmas carol service at Westminster Abbey in London. This will be her first major public engagement since undergoing cancer treatment earlier this year.

Kate, married to Prince William, heir to the throne, had limited public appearances after undergoing significant abdominal surgery in January and a course of preventative chemotherapy following cancer detection. She recently participated in high-profile Remembrance events, marking her gradual return to official engagements, but the carol service will be the first major royal event she has personally organized.

In a statement, Kensington Palace explained that this year's service would reflect on the significance of love, empathy, and the need for each other, particularly during challenging times. This message resonates with what Kate shared in September, expressing that her health battle had deepened her gratitude for "simply loving and being loved."

During a recent trip to Africa, Prince William assured that Kate is "doing really well" and has been "amazing" this year, though he acknowledged the family had faced a tough time, especially with Kate's treatment coinciding with King Charles' cancer diagnosis.

The service, titled "Together At Christmas," will be attended by 1,600 people who have made a difference in their communities. The event will be broadcast on ITV on Christmas Eve and will feature performances by artists Paloma Faith, Olivia Dean, and Gregory Porter.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from Reuters