In an emotional reflection that has stirred hearts and headlines, Prince Harry’s former priest has come forward with a heartfelt defense of the embattled royal.
Canon Angela Tilby, who knew Harry during his time at Eton, shared her thoughts in a recent article published in Church Times, where she reflected on his struggles.
According to GB News, Tilby was a spiritual guide to the young Duke of Sussex back in 2002, and had also been present at the funeral of his mother, Princess Diana.
In a moving passage, she wrote, “I grieve for that ginger-topped teenager I once preached to,” expressing both sadness and empathy for Harry’s emotional journey.
Tilby didn’t shy away from addressing the trauma Harry has endured, particularly after losing his mother so publicly and walking behind her coffin as a young boy.
She stated, “I believe that he is a decent man. But, so far, he has found no way to switch off the trauma in his head.”
This powerful line underlines what many have suspected — that Harry’s controversial behavior may stem more from pain than rebellion.
The priest offered a rare compassionate take, saying the “grievous trauma” from his childhood continues to haunt him, even now as a father and public figure.
But Tilby didn’t stop there. She also criticized how the media and public have treated Harry and Meghan, calling the “sharp criticism” they face “vulgar and cruel.”
Such strong words from a former spiritual adviser add weight to growing concerns about the relentless pressure Harry has endured since stepping away from royal duties.
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Yet, despite her sympathy, Tilby acknowledged that Harry is not blameless. She admitted that some of his current isolation is “largely the result of his own actions.”
In particular, she highlighted the fallout from Spare, his explosive memoir that shocked the world and further deepened rifts within the royal family.
According to Tilby, the book didn’t offer healing, but instead “worsened his alienation from his family,” leaving him more estranged than ever.
Her message was clear — while the trauma is real and ongoing, Harry’s choices have not always led him closer to the healing he seems to crave.
Still, her words bring an emotional and human perspective to a story often reduced to tabloid headlines and public feuds.
As Prince Harry continues to navigate life outside the monarchy, the reflection from someone who once guided him spiritually might just be the reminder he needs.
