Queen Elizabeth II, in her annual Christmas Day message to Britain and the Commonwealth, on Tuesday urged people to take responsibility for vulnerable individuals excluded by modern society.
"The Christmas story also draws attention to all those people who are on the edge of society-people who feel cut off and disadvantaged; people who, for one reason or another, are not able to enjoy the full benefits of living in a civilised and law-abiding community," she said. "For these people the modern world can seem a distant and hostile place.
"It is all too easy to 'turn a blind eye', 'to pass by on the other side', and leave it to experts and professionals. "All the great religious teachings of the world press home the message that everyone has a responsibility to care for the vulnerable.
"Fortunately, there are many groups and individuals, often unsung and unrewarded, who are dedicated to ensuring that the 'outsiders' are given a chance to be recognised and respected. "However, each one of us can also help by offering a little time, a talent or a possession, and taking a share in the responsibility for the well-being of those who feel excluded."
"In my experience, the positive value of a happy family is one of the factors of human existence that has not changed. "The immediate family of grandparents, parents and children, together with their extended family, is still the core of a thriving community."
She also paid tribute to the armed forces serving in Iraq and Afghanistan and hoped that people missing loved ones would find strength and comfort in their family and friends. The queen ended her message by quoting from a traditional Christmas carol service.
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