A storm is brewing around King Charles III after a former royal chaplain accused the monarch of betraying the Christian faith he pledged to defend, arguing that the King’s embrace of a broader multi-faith role marks a departure from Britain’s historic Christian foundation.
The controversy centers on the latest Sovereign Grant report, which describes the King as the Supreme Governor of the Church of England who “protects the space for Faith within the multi-faith nation.” Previous descriptions of the monarch’s role emphasized the sovereign as “Defender of the Faith,” a title that has long reflected the Crown’s constitutional relationship with Christianity.
Dr. Gavin Ashenden, who served as chaplain to Queen Elizabeth II from 2008 to 2017, said the change represents far more than updated wording.
“What appears to be an adjustment of his coronation oaths is in fact a betrayal of his office, of his Christian faith, and that of his subjects,” Ashenden wrote.
Order Jonathan Cahn’s New Book, “The Altar of Pergamon” on Amazon.com!
Ashenden argued that Britain’s sovereign is constitutionally and spiritually charged with defending the Christian faith, not promoting religion in general. He warned that placing Christianity alongside other religions as equally valid undermines the Gospel’s exclusive claims.
Describing the idea that all religions are equally true, Ashenden called it “an assault against the authority of Jesus” and said it is “dangerous and inimical to Christ, to what He taught, and to those who follow Him.”
The King’s broader approach to faith is not new. Decades before ascending the throne, Charles expressed a desire to serve as a defender of faith in a broader sense, reflecting Britain’s increasingly religiously diverse society. Supporters say the language acknowledges the nation’s modern landscape while preserving the King’s own Christian commitment.
Ashenden, however, contends that the issue is not one of religious liberty but of constitutional responsibility. He argues that the monarch’s coronation oath and historic office bind the sovereign to defend the Christian faith that has shaped Britain’s laws, institutions and national identity.
The controversy is not so much about semantics as it is about spiritual fidelity. Ashenden argues that the question facing Britain’s monarchy is whether it will continue to proclaim the unique lordship of Jesus Christ or redefine its historic Christian calling in the name of religious pluralism.
James Lasher, a seasoned writer and editor at Charisma Media, combines faith and storytelling with a journalism background from Otterbein University and ministry experience in Guatemala and at the LA Dream Center. A Marine Corps and Air Force veteran, he is the author of The Revelation of Jesus: A Common Man’s Commentary and a contributor to Charisma magazine. For interviews and media inquiries, please contact [email protected].
