Queen Elizabeth spoke to her nation in the Annual Christmas address, as reported by The Telegraph:
“This past year has been one of great celebration for many. The enthusiasm which greeted the Diamond Jubilee was, of course, especially memorable for me and my family.
“It was humbling that so many chose to mark the anniversary of a duty which passed to me 60 years ago. People of all ages took the trouble to take part in various ways and in many nations.
“But perhaps most striking of all was to witness the strength of fellowship and friendship among those who had gathered together on these occasions.”
The eight minute 40 second broadcast, with a camera on the Queen speaking, also includes music and video footage from the past year with special focus on the Olympic Games.
While the video was carefully and skillfully produced (for the first time, in 3-D), it is also a unique moment in what it offers:
The Christmas address is one of the rare occasions when the Queen does not turn to the Government for advice but is able to voice her own views.
It also has a strong religious framework and this year the Queen spoke about the story at the heart of Christmas – the birth of Jesus.
“A young mother and a dutiful father with their baby were joined by poor shepherds and visitors from afar. They came with their gifts to worship the Christ child,” she said.
“From that day on, he has inspired people to commit themselves to the best interests of others.”
The Queen concludes with a reflection on the hymn “In the Deep Mid-Winter”, and then the hymn is sung by The Military Wives Choir.