*Prince William has faced criticism during a recent LBC debate, with former royal chaplain Gavin Ashenden arguing that the prince’s approach to religion feels “insulting.”*
In a clip shared on X, Ashenden said he was “feeling a bit insulted,” stressing that faith is a matter of “intense integrity.” He emphasized its importance, saying: “People die for it in places, they give their lives for it. The standards are very high, you forgive your enemies, you love your enemies,” before adding that “it’s a big thing.”
Concerns About His Religious Commitment
Ashenden’s criticism was partly based on comments from royal biographer Robert Hardman, who has described William as “not particularly religious” and suggested he has doubts about leading a church he does not attend regularly.
While acknowledging that William seems like a “really sweet man with vacant ideas about God,” Ashenden said he still found the situation troubling. He argued that the prince’s stance appeared “strategic and political,” even if he understood the reasoning behind it.
“But,” he added, “If you’re a passionate Christian, frankly it’s insulting.”
Public Reaction Divided
The remarks quickly sparked mixed reactions online. Some defended William, questioning why others should judge his personal beliefs.
“So the person writing a book and cashing in from another persons life is believed over that person. Ridiculous – stop making it political. People find God at different times in their lives,” one person wrote.
Others echoed similar sentiments. “Religious belief or not doesn’t change a person’s character, and is really nobody else’s business…” another commented.
A third urged understanding: “Give the guy a break. He’s dammed when he does and he’s dammed when he doesn’t. How about doing the Christian thing yourself and give him some support and respect.”
> ‘Frankly, it’s insulting.’
> Former Chaplain to the late Queen, [@gavinashenden](https://twitter.com/gavinashenden?ref\_src=twsrc%5Etfw), says he finds Prince William’s confirmation of ‘quiet faith’ as ‘strategic and political’. [pic.twitter.com/O2zZmQfTLC](https://t.co/O2zZmQfTLC)
> — LBC (@LBC) [March 22, 2026](https://twitter.com/LBC/status/2035826831526449209?ref\_src=twsrc%5Etfw)
A More Private Approach to Faith
Despite the criticism, recent reports suggest William’s connection to religion may be more personal than public. Sources indicate that his relationship with the Church and its responsibilities “runs deep and is grounded in something personal and sincere.”
An aide also explained that his “commitment to the Church of England is sometimes quieter than people expect, and for that reason it is not always fully understood.”
They added: “Faith, service and responsibility are themes that have long shaped the role he will one day inherit, and they are things he approaches in his own thoughtful way.”
Looking Ahead to His Future Role
Another source told The Sunday Times that William still sees faith as an important part of his future responsibilities, even if he expresses it differently.
“I might not be at church every day, but I believe in it, I want to support it, and this is an important aspect of my role and the next role,” the source said.
A Continuing Debate
The discussion highlights an ongoing tension between public expectations and private belief. While some critics feel a future monarch should demonstrate stronger religious devotion, others argue that faith is deeply personal—and that William’s quieter approach does not diminish his sincerity.
