Defender of the Faith facts for kids
Defender of the Faith (which means Fidei Defensor in Latin) is a special title. It belongs to the leader of the Church of England.
This title was first given to King Henry VIII of England. Pope Leo X gave it to him on October 11, 1521. The Pope gave it as a reward. King Henry had written a small book. This book defended the sacraments against Martin Luther. The book was called Declaration of the Seven Sacraments Against Martin Luther.
King James V of Scotland also received a similar title. Pope Paul III gave it to him.
How the Title Changed Hands
Later, King Henry VIII broke away from the Roman Catholic Church. Because of this, Pope Paul III took the title away from him.
But the title was given back to the king. The Parliament of England returned it in 1544.
Defender of the Faith Today
The short form, Fid. Def. or F.D., has been on British coins for a long time. It first appeared during the time of King George I.
Today, "Defender of the Faith" is still a title used by British monarchs. It shows their role in the Church of England.
Images for kids
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Medal of Queen Mary I with the legend "Maria I Reg. Angl. Franc. et Hib. Fidei Defensatrix"
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Church decorations in Vulture Street, South Brisbane for the royal visit, 1954
See also
In Spanish: Fidei defensor para niños
