Over Christmas and the New Year, the Queen spoke of Jesus as ‘an inspiration and an anchor’. In her annual Christmas message the Queen spoke about reconciliation and forgiveness, describing Jesus as a ‘role model’ of these qualities. In the message, broadcast on Christmas Day, she said: ‘For me, the life of Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace, whose birth we celebrate today, is an inspiration and an anchor in my life. A role model of reconciliation and forgiveness, he stretched out his hands in love, acceptance and healing. Christ’s example has taught me to seek to respect and value all people, of whatever faith or none.’ The monarch’s annual Christmas speech, which was first delivered by George V in 1932, is one of the rare occasions when the Queen gives her own views on events in the nation and around the world