Prince William has sparked controversy after it was revealed he has a ‘quiet faith’, despite being destined to govern the Church of England.

Critics were disappointed at the heir to the throne’s failure to be more demonstrative, but many members of the clergy were quick to support his reported approach.

Debate was sparked after a source close to the prince confirmed he has a ‘quiet faith’ and ‘commitment to the Church of England’, and wishes to build ‘a strong and meaningful bond with the Church and its leadership’.

The revelation came shortly before the future king attends the installation of the first female Archbishop of Canterbury, Dame Sarah Mullally, on Wednesday.

Conservative churchman the Reverend Marcus Walker said diplomatically, ‘God will find William by the time he is on the throne.’

He told the Daily Mail: ‘Elizabeth I said we should not make windows into men’s souls, but wherever Prince William is on his journey, I’m sure God will find him.

‘Where a person is on their faith journey is a delicate matter.

‘The prince has been honest, and I think that’s a good thing. He knows his duties and his responsibilities. Hopefully there’s a long time before he is Supreme Governor of the Church of England.’

Critics were disappointed at Prince William's failure to be more demonstrative, but many members of the clergy were quick to support his reported approach
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Critics were disappointed at Prince William’s failure to be more demonstrative, but many members of the clergy were quick to support his reported approach

Right-wing broadcaster Calvin Robinson, who is a Christian, said: ‘Now is not the time for “quiet faith”.’

Referring to the prince, the source told The Sunday Times: ‘His feeling is, “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, and I will take it very seriously, in my own way”.’