King Charles III Draws Criticism Over 2026 Faith Wording Change in Sovereign Grant Report
Updated
Updated · Fox News · Aug 19
King Charles III Draws Criticism Over 2026 Faith Wording Change in Sovereign Grant Report
1 articles · Updated · Fox News · Aug 19
Summary
Gavin Ashenden, Queen Elizabeth II’s former chaplain, accused King Charles III of “deserting Christians” after the 2026 Sovereign Grant Annual Report dropped “Defender of the Faith.”
The June report instead said Charles is “Supreme Governor of the Church of England” and “protects the space for Faith within the multi-faith nation,” wording royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams said sparked considerable controversy.
Christopher Andersen said the change fits Charles’ long-standing ecumenical outlook, arguing the king has long believed a modern monarchy must include Muslims, Hindus, Jews and Buddhists rather than center one faith alone.
Richard Fitzwilliams warned weakening the Church of England would cut against the monarchy’s interests, contrasting Charles’ approach with Elizabeth’s view of the church as an umbrella under which other faiths could flourish.
The dispute also points to a broader royal shift: Andersen said Prince William and Catherine may eventually phase out the “Defender of the Faith” role altogether.