The Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe—commonly referred to as the Feast of Christ the King—is a liturgical feast celebrated by the Roman Catholic Church, as well as many other Christian denominations. Instituted by Pope Pius XI in 1925, the Feast occurs on the last Sunday of the liturgical year, right before Advent starts. It serves as a powerful reminder of the all-encompassing authority of Christ, our King, and our ultimate call to serve Him.
The Historical Context of the Feast
When Pope Pius XI instituted the Feast of Christ the King, the world was in a tumultuous state. Political and social unrest was rife, and there was a growing concern about secularism and the marginalization of religion. The Pope wanted to combat these societal issues by emphasizing the sovereign authority of Christ. He outlined this in his encyclical Quas Primas.
According to the teaching of the Church, Christ is King in every sense. He is King of all creation because “all things were created through him, and for him” (Colossians 1:16). He is also the King of our souls, guiding us towards eternal life.
Scriptural Basis for Christ as King
The Bible is replete with references that underline the Kingship of Jesus. One prominent example comes from the Gospel of John, where Jesus says to Pilate, “My kingdom is not of this world” (John 18:36). His answer highlights that His authority is not political but spiritual and eternal.
In the Old Testament, we encounter prophecies that foretell the coming of the Messiah as King. For example, Isaiah 9:6 declares, “For a child is born to us, a son is given us; upon his shoulder dominion rests. They name him Wonder-Counselor, God-Hero, Father-Forever, Prince of Peace.”
The Catechism and Christ the King
The Catechism of the Catholic Church affirms the kingship of Christ in several sections. It states, “To Jesus Christ, the Holy Father entrusts and offers the keys of this Kingdom” (CCC 2816). It further declares that Christ is “Lord of the cosmos and of history” (CCC 450).
The Catechism also explains that “Christ’s reign is yet to be fully accomplished ‘until he puts all his enemies under his feet'” (CCC 671), meaning that the full extent of His kingship will be apparent at the end of time.
Theological Insights into the Feast
While the Kingship of Christ is a universal teaching of the Church, there are varying theological opinions on what this means for us today. Some theologians emphasize that Christ’s Kingship should guide our social justice initiatives, while others focus on its eschatological—meaning ‘end times’—aspects.
Regardless, there are universal teachings to remember. The Feast is a call to recognize and accept the sovereign authority of Jesus in our lives, not just as a historical figure or ethical teacher, but as the living, eternal King.
How the Feast Is Celebrated
Typically, the Feast of Christ the King is celebrated with a Mass that features readings and hymns focused on the Kingship of Christ. It is a day of obligation, meaning that Catholics are required to attend Mass. The vestments for the day are white, symbolizing purity and joy.
Beyond the Mass, the Feast serves as a call to action for Catholics. It is an opportunity to reflect on our own submission to Christ the King and to act in a manner befitting citizens of His Kingdom, which according to the Bible, is built on principles of “righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit” (Romans 14:17).
The Message for Modern Times
Living in a world rife with challenges, the message of the Feast of Christ the King is ever relevant. In an era where authority is often questioned and skepticism reigns, this Feast provides a counterpoint by reminding us of the ultimate authority, who rules with justice and love. The Feast is a rallying call for Christians to put Christ at the center of their lives, to follow His commandments, and to build His Kingdom here on earth.
As we move towards the end of the liturgical year, the Feast serves as both a culmination and a preparation. It is the culmination of our annual journey through the mysteries of the faith, and it prepares us for Advent, where we anticipate Christ’s second coming in glory.
Conclusion
The Feast of Christ the King serves as an enduring reminder of who is in charge of our lives and our world. It is not merely an optional celebration but a core element of our faith as Catholics. It is a Feast that reminds us to bow down before our King, Jesus Christ, and acknowledge Him as the “Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end” (Revelation 22:13).
In a world that constantly tries to dethrone God, the Feast of Christ the King is a call to reaffirm our loyalty to the One who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty (Revelation 1:8). It is a call to surrender ourselves fully to Jesus Christ, who is “the way and the truth and the life” (John 14:6) and the eternal King of the Universe.