“Every year, we announce the arrival of Christmas by turning on the lights,” said the Queen, noting that this year people were unable to celebrate in the usual way.
“But we need life to continue,” she added. “A year that necessarily separated people, in many ways it brought us together.”
Much of the UK is currently under severe restrictions on coronavirus due to the increase in cases in the winter, preventing many families from reuniting at Christmas.
“Of course, for many, this time of year will be tinged with sadness,” said the Queen.
“Some mourning the loss of their loved ones, and others missing from friends and family distanced from safety, when all they really want for Christmas is a simple hug or 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 man also recognized those from other religious backgrounds who were unable to celebrate their own religious holidays last year due to the pandemic.
The Queen said she was inspired by stories of people who helped people in need and said that the people of the UK and the world were up to the challenges of the year.
She went on to say that the country owes a “debt of gratitude” to those who worked in the frontline services and in the scientific field.
The British monarch traditionally celebrates Christmas at Sandringham, her English country retreat, where children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren are usually joined, but Covid-19 prevented them from celebrating on the property this year.
Instead, the queen is spending Christmas “quietly” this year at Windsor Castle with her husband, Prince Philip.
The royal family was directly hit by the pandemic this year, with the heir to the British throne, Prince Charles, and his son, Prince William, testing positive for the virus.
Queen and Prince Philip spent most of their time in 2020 at Windsor Castle, having moved out of Buckingham Palace during the first wave of Covid-19 in the spring.
His remarks ended on a positive note.
“The Bible tells how a star appeared in heaven, its light guiding pastors and sages to the scene of Jesus’ birth,” she said.
“May the light of Christmas – the spirit of self-denial, love and above all hope – guide us in the times to come”.