Yesterday, November 24, marks the Feast of Christ the King, a significant event in the liturgical calendar for Christians worldwide. This solemn feast emphasizes the divine kingship of Jesus Christ, reminding believers of His ultimate authority over all creation, transcending earthly realms and temporal powers. Observed globally across various Christian denominations, it serves as a moment of reflection, unity, and proclamation of faith.
The Feast of Christ the King, also known as the Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe, was established by Pope Pius XI in 1925. This declaration came during a time when secularism and totalitarian ideologies were gaining traction, threatening to overshadow the spiritual and moral authority of the Church. By instituting this feast, the Church aimed to reaffirm Christ’s dominion over all aspects of life, urging Christians to prioritize their allegiance to His teachings.
Traditionally observed on the last Sunday of the liturgical year in the Roman Catholic Church, the feast is a prelude to Advent, inviting the faithful to reflect on the ultimate fulfillment of God's kingdom. Other denominations, including Anglican, Lutheran, and certain Protestant traditions, also commemorate the day with varying practices and liturgies.
The Feast of Christ the King is marked by grand liturgical celebrations, including solemn Masses, Eucharistic processions, and public displays of devotion. In many communities, the faithful gather to sing hymns such as Crown Him with Many Crowns and To Jesus Christ, Our Sovereign King, exalting Christ’s eternal reign. These acts of worship echo the message of the feast: Christ's kingship is rooted not in worldly power but in love, service, and truth.
The feast remains deeply relevant in today’s world, offering a counter-narrative to materialism, division, and injustice. It reminds believers to recognize Christ’s presence in every aspect of their lives, urging them to act as ambassadors of His kingdom by promoting peace, compassion, and justice.
Social media platforms have been abuzz with expressions of faith and devotion. Tweets such as:
highlight the global resonance of this feast, with believers using modern platforms to proclaim timeless truths.
For many, the Feast of Christ the King is not just a liturgical observance but a deeply personal experience. It calls individuals to introspect: Is Christ truly the King of their hearts, families, and communities? Are they living in accordance with His teachings and bearing witness to His love?
The Feast of Christ the King transcends denominational boundaries, uniting Christians in their shared belief in Jesus as the ultimate King. It invites all to envision a world where His kingdom—marked by love, justice, and peace—reigns supreme.
As the liturgical year draws to a close, today’s feast serves as a powerful reminder of Christ’s eternal sovereignty and a hopeful anticipation of His second coming. Indeed, as many proclaim on this day, Christ is King, yesterday, today, and forever.
Feel free to share your reflections or join the global conversation online using the hashtag #ChristIsKING. Let us celebrate the divine kingship of Christ in our lives and in the world.
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