“Why is it celebrated on Sunday?” a curious voice echoes. The Feast of Christ the King, a relatively recent addition to the Western liturgical calendar, holds a unique place in Christian tradition. It is celebrated to honor Jesus Christ as Lord over all creation.
This feast wasn’t always around. Pope Pius XI instituted it in 1925. He wanted to remind the faithful that their allegiance to Christ superseded any government or nation.
The story of Christ the King is intertwined with historical events. The early 20th century saw the rise of secularization, atheism, and communism. Pope Pius XI created this feast as a response. He sought to reassert Christ’s dominion in a world that was increasingly marginalizing religion.
Originally, the feast was celebrated on the last Sunday of October. But Pope Paul VI revised the liturgical calendar in 1969. He moved it to the last Sunday of Ordinary Time. This placed it immediately before Advent. This timing made it a fitting end to the liturgical year. It emphasizes Christ’s dominion.
The Feast of Christ the King is more than just a historical marker. It celebrates the full authority of Christ as King and Lord of the Universe. Revelation 19:16 speaks of Christ’s dominion over all aspects of our lives.
The liturgical color for the feast is white or gold. It portrays the kingship of Jesus. It is a visual reminder of the glory and majesty of our maker.
Some Anglicans call this Sunday “Stir-up Sunday”. This name comes from the Anglican collect for the day. It begins with the words “Stir up, we beseech thee, O Lord, the wills of thy faithful people”.
The Feast of Christ the King serves as a reminder. It is a reminder that Christ’s kingdom is not far off but a present reality. We are living in that kingdom now. It is a call to proclaim the good news of Christ’s reign in the world today.
Pope Pius XI instituted the Feast of Christ the King to promote peace. He wanted to offer an antidote to the rebellion against Christ’s authority. He believed that recognizing Jesus as our true king brings peace and harmony.
The Gospel reading at Mass often includes John 18:33-37. In this passage, Jesus declares himself a king before Pontius Pilate. Jesus states, “I was born for this, I came into the world for this: to bear witness to the truth”.
The Feast of Christ the King prepares us for Advent. It reminds us to await Christ’s coming with hope and trust. It celebrates Christ as our King both on Earth and in Heaven. Jesus is Lord not only for the Church but for the whole universe.
As we reflect on Christ the King, let us remember its origins. Let us remember its message of hope and peace. Let us pledge allegiance to Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe.