King Charles III's Christmas message reflects a coronation theme and calls for planet's protection

King Charles III reflected his coronation theme of public service Monday in a Christmas message that he connected to the health of the planet and wars that are raging.

King Charles III reflected his coronation theme of public service Monday in a Christmas message that he connected to the health of the planet and wars that are raging.

In a pre-recorded video shot with him standing beside a Christmas tree in Buckingham Palace, the king spoke of the message of Jesus' life in serving those less fortunate as he honoured the "selfless army" that forms the "backbone of our society" helping others.

"My heart has been warmed by countless examples of the imaginative ways in which people are caring for one another, going the extra mile to help those around them simply because they know it is the right thing to do," he said.

It was the king's second Christmas speech since he ascended the throne after his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, died in September 2022, but the first since his coronation in May when he was officially crowned in a medieval ceremony rich in pageantry and pomp.

Charles, who has long campaigned for environmental causes and recently told foreign leaders at the COP28 Climate Meeting that achieving climate goals remain "dreadfully far off track," said he was encouraged to see awareness growing of the need to protect the earth.

"To care for this creation is the responsibility owned by people of all faiths and of none," he said. "We care for the earth for the sake of our children's children."