“Every year we announce the coming of Christmas by turning on the lights,” said the queen, noting that this year people could not celebrate in the usual way.
“But we need life to continue,” she added. “A year that necessarily kept people out, brought us closer in many ways.”
Much of the UK is currently under strict coronavirus restrictions due to the rising winter in cases, preventing many families from gathering at Christmas.
“Of course for many, this time of year will be tinged with sadness,” the queen said.
“Some mourn the loss of their loved ones, and others lack friends and family members, distanced for safety, when all they really want for Christmas is a simple hug or a handshake.”
She added, “If you are among them, you are not alone and let me assure you of my thoughts and prayers.”
The 94-year-old also recognized those from other religious backgrounds who have not been able to celebrate their own religious holidays in the last year due to the pandemic.
The Queen said she was inspired by the stories of those who helped people in need and said that people in the UK and around the world had risen to the challenges of the year.
She went on to say that the country has a “debt of gratitude” to those who worked in front-line services and in the scientific fields.
The British monarch traditionally celebrates Christmas in Sandringham, her retreat to the English country, where she is usually accompanied by children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, but Covid-19 prevented them from celebrating at the estate this year.
The queen spends “quiet” Christmas this year at Windsor Castle with her husband, Prince Philip.
The royal family was hit directly by the pandemic this year, both with the heir to the British throne, Prince Charles, and with his son, Prince William, testing positive for the virus.
Queen Philip and Prince Philip spent most of their time in 2020 at Windsor Castle, after moving away from Buckingham Palace during the first wave of Covid-19 in the spring.
Her remarks ended on a positive note.
“The Bible tells how a star appeared in the sky, its light guiding shepherds and sages to the birthplace of Jesus,” she said.
“Let the light of Christmas — the spirit of altruism, love, and above all hope — guide us into the times to come.”