Charles III, Defender of The Faith

With the passing of Queen Elizabeth II and the pomp and pageantry surrounding her funeral, it is a rarity when a new British Monarch is proclaimed. Her eldest son, Charles III is styled “Charles III, by the Grace of God, of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and of His other realms and Territories King, Head of The Commonwealth, Defender of The Faith”. The original Latin phrase Fidei Defensor, reflects the Sovereign position as Head of the Church of England. The original designation Defender of The Faith was bestowed on James VI in 1507 by Pope Julius II. It was subsequently bestowed by King Henry the Eighth by another pope. The phrase is seen on modern British coins bearing “FID DEF”. I am pleased King Charles III went out of his way to say that Christianity plays a fundamental role in his life. The King of Scots is the hereditary Grand Master of the Royal Order of Scotland, for whom, at every meeting of the Order, wherever held, a vacant chair is left for him to occupy if he so chooses.  I was privileged to be designated a member of the Royal Order of Scotland, an invitational order, some 28 years ago.  It was a proud moment with much solemnity and reminders of the ancient Scottish King Robert-the-Bruce.  All members must be Trinitarian Christians. Fidelity transcends generations. God Save The King.