Historian questions monarch’s interfaith message during traditional Christian service
King Charles III has come under scrutiny for his recent Easter message, which some critics claim overstepped traditional boundaries by referencing other religions during a sacred Christian service.
Continuing the legacy of his late mother, Queen Elizabeth II, the 76-year-old monarch delivered a message of love and unity during the Royal Maundy Service at Durham Cathedral on 18 April. He urged people to embrace peace and reflect on what he described as “one of the puzzles of our humanity”—the capacity for both cruelty and kindness.
While many applauded the King's compassionate words, royal historian Alexander Lamon questioned the appropriateness of the setting. Speaking to GB News, Lamon said the monarch went "out of his way" to include references to other faiths and posed the question: "Was this the time or place?"
Although Lamon acknowledged the King’s genuine interest in other religions, he raised concerns over the timing and context of the message.
Despite the mixed response, many Britons and royal supporters stood by the monarch, praising his dedication to fostering harmony and continuing Queen Elizabeth II’s values of inclusion and understanding.
