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In what will be viewed as a veiled reference to the ongoing debate over the UK's departure from the EU, the Queen said: "Reflecting on a century of change, it is clear that the qualities of the WI endure.
"The continued emphasis on patience, friendship, a strong community focus, and considering the needs of others, are as important today as they were when the group was founded all those years ago.
"Of course, every generation faces fresh challenges and opportunities.
"As we look for new answers in the modern age, I for one prefer the tried and tested recipes, like speaking well of each other and respecting different points of view; coming together to seek out the common ground; and never losing sight of the bigger picture. [...]
The Queen is politically neutral in her role as head of state but her address on Wednesday marks the second time in the space of the month she has spoken of the need for tolerance.
In her Christmas message, she said: "Even with the most deeply held differences, treating the other person with respect and as a fellow human being is always a good first step towards greater understanding."
Chancellor Philip Hammond told Sky News the monarch was expressing "what most of us feel".
"That we have to come together, we have to find common ground and most of all we have to compromise to ensure a smooth exit from the European Union and a way of doing that which protects Britain's future prosperity," he said.
"There are still - at the moment - too many people advocating their preferred solutions rather than looking for compromises to an acceptable outcome for all of us."
The prime minister's official spokesman declined to comment directly on the Queen's remarks, but told reporters at a regular Westminster briefing: "The prime minister's own view is that we should always show great respect for the point of view of others." [...]