Could Prince William be first monarch in five centuries NOT to be head of the Church of England?

Prince William, when he ascends to the throne, might be considering breaking with the tradition of British monarchs holding the formal title of Supreme Governor of the Church of England. Despite his admiration and respect for the Church, Prince William reportedly does not attend services regularly and views himself as similar to the average Briton in this regard.

Prince William could become the first British monarch in five centuries to break official ties with the Church of England. Above: King Charles with his son and grandson Prince George in an official picture marking his Coronation 

The article highlights the ongoing discussions within royal circles regarding whether the Prince of Wales would take on the title of Supreme Governor of the Church of England instead. This potential decision would mark a significant departure from the centuries-old tradition established during the time of Henry VIII.

There is already talk in royal circles as to whether the Prince of Wales will take the title of Supreme Governor of the Church of England when he eventually becomes king. Above: William and Catherine with Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby at Prince George's christening in 2013

William greatly admires and respects the Church, and enjoys attending services at significant times of the year, such as Christmas and Easter. But he feels he is no different to the average Briton in that he is not a regular worshipper.

Prince William and the Princess of Wales arriving for the Christmas Day church service at Sandringham last month with their children Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, as well as Mia Tindall

The excerpt from Robert Hardman's biography of King Charles sheds light on the differing approaches to religion between King Charles and his son, Prince William. The passage suggests that Prince William does not share the same level of spiritual inclination as his father or the late Queen, who was known for her strong devotion to the Anglican Church.

Prince William is seen at his brother's wedding in 2018. The pair were snapped talking to the Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby ahead of the start of the ceremony

According to a senior Palace figure quoted in the excerpt, Prince William is described as not being a regular churchgoer, attending services primarily on significant occasions like Christmas and Easter. The source indicates that the Prince respects religious institutions but is not naturally at ease in a faith-based environment.

This information adds context to the earlier discussion about the potential for Prince William to break with tradition and not take on the formal role of Supreme Governor of the Church of England when he becomes king. The differences in religious inclination between the Prince and his father, as presented in the biography, are portrayed as contributing factors to the speculation about a potential break from the established royal tradition.

Prince William was confirmed into the Anglican faith in 1997 at the age of 14. However, the passage suggests that he attends only a "handful" of services each year, primarily linked to official engagements, special occasions in the Christian calendar, as well as weddings and christenings. This contrasts with Queen Elizabeth, who was described as a devout Christian attending church on a weekly basis, and King Charles, who is portrayed as a regular churchgoer.

The text also highlights the broader context of declining church membership in the UK. The decline is attributed to public apathy, especially among the younger generation. The statistics mentioned indicate a significant decrease in church membership over the years, with an expected further drop to 8.4 percent of the population by the next year.

The connection between these broader trends in religious engagement and Prince William's own practices could be interpreted as reflective of shifting attitudes toward organized religion in contemporary society. The declining church membership figures underscore a broader societal trend that may influence the perspectives and practices of individuals, including members of the royal family.

The detailed information provides insights into the dynamics of church attendance in the Church of England, the unique relationship between the monarchy and the Anglican Church, and differences in approach between King Charles and his son, Prince William.

The statistics on church attendance highlight a decline in the average weekly attendance at Church of England services from 2009 to 2022. Notably, a significant portion of regular attendees in 2009 was aged 70 or over, indicating an aging demographic among churchgoers. The monarchy's historical connection to the Church of England is emphasized, with the sovereign holding the titles "Defender of the Faith and Supreme Governor of the Church of England" since Henry VIII's break with Rome in 1531.

The information also touches upon the monarch's role in appointing archbishops and bishops, their oath of allegiance, and the opening of the General Synod every five years. These details underscore the close relationship and influence the monarchy has within the Church of England.

The passage then transitions to differences between King Charles and Prince William, particularly in their views on coronations. Prince William, according to Robert Hardman's book, envisions a shorter and more discreet coronation, differing from his father's ceremony.

Descriptions of Prince William as "serious and pragmatic" and less inclined to make controversial speeches highlight his preference for a more conventional and cautious approach compared to King Charles, who is portrayed as having a penchant for academics and intellectuals.

The passage provides additional details on the relationship between King Charles and his son, Prince William, shedding light on their differences, shared experiences, and the dynamics within the royal family.

King Charles is depicted as bristling at the notion that he would be a mere caretaker until Prince William takes over as the "change-maker." Princess Anne and Queen Camilla's sister, Annabel Elliott, dismiss this idea, emphasizing that starting later in life provides King Charles with valuable experience and opinions. The anticipation of changes during King Charles's reign is acknowledged.

The topic is aired in a fascinating new biography of King Charles by renowned royal writer Robert Hardman

The information also touches upon the differences in living arrangements between King Charles and Prince William. While Prince William is committed to his role and links to Wales, he plans to rent out his father's property there and does not intend to stay in it himself. The decision against a grand investiture as Prince of Wales is noted, with a consensus that it aligns with the lack of appetite in Wales for large-scale events.

Additionally, Prince William's perspective on the head of the Commonwealth is mentioned. He does not see himself as a guaranteed successor to his father and expresses a potential preference for sharing the honor among member nations.

Generational differences between King Charles and Prince William are highlighted, including preferences for entertainment. Prince William reportedly favors box sets over reading, while the King enjoys reading and has a passion for organic farming. However, despite these differences, the relationship between father and son has reportedly improved. They share a disinterest in watching "The Crown," with Prince William refusing to view it, and their bond has strengthened, especially in the aftermath of the situation involving Prince Harry.

The passage also notes King Charles' appreciation for his daughter-in-law, Catherine, and acknowledges his contentment with leaving the length of his reign to "genetics and the Almighty." Princess Anne underscores the importance of understanding what is crucial for the monarchy and emphasizes the necessity for the royal team to work together.