Theoretically, what would happen if a sitting British monarch decided one day to change their religion?

Question

Of course, this would never happen. But what if it did?

And let's say, for the sake of argument, that they changed to a non-Christian religion (I know there would be enough of an uproar if one changed from C or E to RC)

And let's also say they made a public declaration of this and sought formal membership in that new religion.

What would happen?

Answer 1

There would be an uproar, but I doubt anything would be done about it.  

Of course there is the little problem of the monarch being the head of the Anglican church.  I guess that would have to be changed if the monarch chose to become a Buddhist for example.

Answer 2

QUEEN AND CHURCH OF ENGLAND

The Sovereign holds the title 'Defender of the Faith and Supreme Governor of the Church of England'.

The Church of England, and the monarch's relation to it, was established through a series of Parliamentary Acts in the 1530s, which brought about the English Reformation.

Henry VIII broke from the Roman Catholic Church by denying papal claims to ecclesiastical or any other jurisdiction, and by declaring himself rather than the Pope as Supreme Head of the Church in England.

There are many examples of the relationship between the established Church and the State.

Archbishops and bishops are appointed by The Queen on the advice of the Prime Minister, who considers the names selected by a Church Commission. They take an oath of allegiance to The Queen on appointment and may not resign without Royal authority.

The connection between Church and State is also symbolised by the fact that the 'Lords Spiritual' (consisting of the Archbishops of Canterbury and York and 24 diocesan bishops) sit in the House of Lords. Parish priests also take an oath of allegiance to The Queen.

The General Synod (including the bishops, elected representatives from the clergy and the laity) is the supreme authority of the Church of England. The Queen opens the Synod after the elections in the dioceses every five years.

Since 1919, the Synod (formerly called the Church Assembly) has had the power to pass Measures on any matter concerning the Church of England.

Following acceptance of the Measures by both Houses of Parliament (which cannot amend them), they are submitted for Royal Assent and become law.



The Preface to the 39 Articles of the Church of England describes the monarch as 'being by God's Ordinance, according to Our just Title, Defender of the Faith and ... Supreme Governor of the Church of England'.

In addition to legislating for the Church by Measure, the General Synod has the power to legislate by Canon in its own domestic affairs such as worship and doctrine, but The Queen's assent is required for the promulgation of such Canons. Such assent is given on the Home Secretary's advice.

In his or her coronation oath, the Sovereign promises to maintain the Church.

The Sovereign must be in communion with the Church of England, that is, a full, confirmed member.

best of luck to you!

Answer 3

The anglican church would then have to be independent.

And there would be a (healthy) separation of church and state.

Other than that, the tabloids will make a fortune.

Answer 4

From a religious point of view, I could see if causing tensions in the country but otherwise not a lot would happen.  Britain has signed up to the European Convention on Human Rights which gives every individual the right to choice of religion so they would have that right, but it wouldn't change their power over any other people in Britain.  Technically the church of England would not have a head, but I guess that could trickle down to whoever was the highest ranking member of the royal family who was still C of E :-)

Answer 5

there would be unrest like what happened in the days of Henry VIII and his two daughters, Mary and Elizabeth I

Answer 6

they would have to abdicate

Answer 7

i think its kind of like saying what if the pope became a muslim. they probably get a new one.