Have you ever wondered why the Feast of Christ the King comes at the very end of the Church’s liturgical year? This beautiful celebration calls us to reflect on the ultimate truth: Jesus Christ is not just a shepherd or teacher; He is the King of all creation. Instituted to remind the world of Christ’s sovereign authority in an era of growing secularism, this feast stands as a bold proclamation of His rightful reign over hearts, nations, and the universe itself. But what makes this feast so significant, and why is it fittingly placed at the culmination of the Church's year? Journey with us as we uncover the profound meaning, historical roots, and spiritual depth of this majestic solemnity.
The History of the Feast
Did you know that the Feast of Christ the King is relatively new? It was established less than 100 years ago! Pope Pius XI introduced this feast with an encyclical called Quas Primas (Latin for “In the first”) which was promulgated on 11 December 1925. He saw that the world was becoming more secular—people were forgetting about God and focusing on worldly power and material things. Nations were turning away from the Church, and ideologies like communism and fascism were replacing faith with political power. Pope Pius XI wanted to remind the world that no matter how powerful earthly leaders may seem, Jesus Christ is the true King. His authority is above all others, and His kingdom will never end.
Originally, the feast was celebrated on the last Sunday of October, just before All Saints’ Day. Later, after the Second Vatican Council, it was moved to the last Sunday of the liturgical year, where it is today. This placement emphasises Christ’s eternal kingship and His role in the fulfilment of time and history.
Why Celebrate at the End of the Year?
Why do we celebrate Christ the King at the end of the liturgical year? It is not random—it has a purpose. The Church puts this celebration here to remind us of the ultimate goal of our faith. The entire liturgical year—every feast, every season—leads us to this moment: acknowledging Christ as King of our lives and preparing for His eternal reign.
The liturgical year beautifully tells the story of Jesus and unfolds the mysteries of our faith. It begins with Advent, a season of waiting and preparation for the birth of our Saviour. This leads to Christmas, where we celebrate the gift of life of Jesus, the Word made flesh, who dwells among us. After Christmas, we move into Ordinary Time, where we reflect on Jesus’ life, ministry, and teachings, growing in our understanding of what it means to follow Him. As we progress, we enter the solemn season of Lent, a time of repentance and renewal, where we prepare for the celebration of His Passion, death, and ultimate triumph over sin and death. The culmination of Lent is the joy of Easter, where we proclaim His glorious Resurrection, the foundation of our faith. Following Easter, we celebrate Pentecost, the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, marking the birth of the Church and the mission to spread the Good News to the ends of the earth. This is followed again by Ordinary Time, where we apply His teachings and deepen our relationship with Him. Finally, the liturgical year concludes with the Feast of Christ the King, a fitting end to the journey, where we recognise Jesus as the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. It is as if the Church is saying, “Everything begins and ends with Jesus.” This celebration not only looks back at the story of salvation but also points us toward the future. Jesus promised that He will come again, and when He does, it will be as King and Judge. Celebrating Christ the King at the year’s end reminds us to prepare our hearts for His second coming.
The Bible itself beautifully reflects this idea of beginnings and endings. The very first verse of Scripture declares:
“In the beginning, when God created the heavens and the earth” (Genesis 1:1).
And the Bible concludes with these words:
“The grace of the Lord Jesus be with all” (Revelation 22:21).
These verses bookend the story of salvation and remind us that the kingdom of God encompasses everything—He is the Creator of the heavens and the earth, the ruler of all the universe. In the beginning, all things were made through Him, and in the end, all things are fulfilled in Christ. From creation to eternal grace, the kingdom of God encompasses everything—He is the Creator of the universe and the eternal King. This truth is mirrored in the liturgical year. We begin anew each Advent, filled with hope and expectation, and we end with Christ the King, asking for His grace to be part of His eternal kingdom. The entire journey of the Church’s liturgical year is a microcosm of our spiritual journey, a reflection of God’s plan for the universe: to draw us closer to Him through His Son, Jesus Christ.
Ending the liturgical year with the Feast of Christ the King is a powerful way to reflect on our faith journey. It is a moment to examine how we have lived as members of God’s kingdom and to recommit ourselves to Him. This celebration also prepares us for Advent, a time of waiting and renewal. As we reflect on Christ’s kingship, we are reminded that His kingdom is eternal, and our lives should always point toward that eternal reality.
Jesus Christ, Our King
When we think of a king, we might imagine someone seated on a grand throne, surrounded by gold and jewels, wearing a magnificent crown. Someone who is concerned about his wealth, authority, and power. A king might command armies, rule over vast territories, and be served by others. But Jesus is not that kind of king. His kingship is radically different from the world’s idea of power and authority. Instead of ruling with wealth or force, Jesus rules with love, peace, and truth. He is the King of Heaven and Earth, but more profoundly, He desires to be the King of our hearts and souls.
What makes Jesus’ kingship so unique is how He governs—not through domination, but through service and sacrifice. Think about it: our King wore a crown of thorns instead of gold, carried a cross instead of a sceptre, and died for us instead of commanding others to die for Him. This is not what anyone would expect of a king, is it? Yet it shows the depth of His love and the kind of King He is. Jesus is the King who gives everything for His people, even His own life, so that we might live forever in His kingdom.
If we have a king, there is also a queen. The role of the queen in a kingdom is significant, often one of guidance, compassion, and advocacy for the people. In the heavenly kingdom of Jesus Christ, this role belongs to Mary, His Blessed Mother. Just as an earthly queen supports the king and shares in his mission, Mary’s role is uniquely tied to Jesus’ kingship. Throughout the Old Testament, we see examples of the queen mother holding a position of honour and influence, often serving as an advocate for the people and sharing in the king's authority. This tradition points to Mary’s role in the heavenly kingdom as the Queen Mother of Jesus, the King of Kings.
At the foot of the Cross—where Jesus, crowned with thorns, won His ultimate victory—He appointed Mary as the spiritual mother of all who live in Christ. Her queenship is not about power but about service, intercession, and leading us closer to Christ, the King. She continues to fulfil her role as a compassionate guide and loving advocate, drawing us to her Son and helping us to live as faithful citizens of His eternal kingdom.
Without a king, what would happen to a kingdom? A kingdom without a ruler would fall into chaos, lacking the direction, protection, and unity that a good king provides. Who would lead the people? Who would ensure that justice prevails, that resources are shared fairly, and that enemies are kept at bay? A king is not merely a figurehead; he is the heart of the kingdom, guiding and safeguarding his people. Without a king, a kingdom risks division, confusion, and even destruction.
In the same way, what happens to us when we do not recognise Jesus as our King? Without Christ at the centre of our lives, we can lose our sense of purpose and direction. Who do we turn to when life becomes overwhelming? Who do we trust to lead us through challenges, temptations, and the trials of life? Without Jesus as our King, we risk being ruled by worldly influences—by greed, pride, fear, or despair. When we acknowledge Jesus as King, however, we find unity, peace, and guidance. He offers us not just leadership but also love, mercy, and the promise of an eternal kingdom where He reigns forever.
So, the question we must ask ourselves is: are we living under His kingship, or are we trying to rule our own lives without Him? Just as a kingdom without a king crumbles, so too can our lives become chaotic and aimless without Christ. Recognising Him as King is not about losing freedom—it is about finding true freedom in His love and care.
What Does a King Do for His Kingdom?
A good king does not exist for himself but for his kingdom and his people. He provides, protects, leads, and cares for his subjects. He guards them from harm and ensures they have what they need to flourish. A good king works tirelessly for the good of his people.
This is exactly what Jesus does for us. As the Good Shepherd, He leads us to green pastures (Psalm 23). He provides for our needs, defends us from the enemy, and even lays down His life for us. Jesus’ kingship is deeply personal—He knows each of us by name and wants the very best for us, both here on earth and in eternity.
But Jesus also shows us that being part of His kingdom comes with responsibilities. He calls us to follow His example and extend His care to others. When He declared the greatest commandment, He revealed the foundation of His kingdom:
"You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the greatest and first commandment. And the second is like it: You shall love your neighbour as yourself" (Matthew 22:37–39).
These commandments are not just rules—they are a way of life in Jesus’ kingdom. When we truly recognise Jesus as our King, we are called to live by His values: love, mercy, compassion, and truth. Loving God with all our hearts means putting Him first, obeying His will, and making Him the centre of our lives. Loving our neighbour as ourselves means going beyond words and showing real care, especially for their spiritual well-being. It means helping others grow closer to God because His kingdom is not just for this world—it is eternal.
If we believe that Jesus is our King, then our lives should reflect that belief. A loyal subject of a good king does everything out of love for the king and for the kingdom. Similarly, if Jesus is truly the King of our hearts, we will follow His commandments with love and devotion. We will prioritise caring for others, not just physically but spiritually, because we are all part of His kingdom.
Jesus’ kingdom is not like earthly kingdoms, which fade away or are limited to a specific place. His kingdom is everlasting, and it begins wherever God’s will is done. This means we can live in His kingdom right now, on earth, by loving Him and serving others. And because His kingdom extends into eternity, the way we live today prepares us for the fullness of life with Him in Heaven.
The Feast of Christ the King reminds us that Jesus is not just a King of the past or a distant ruler in Heaven. He is a King who is close to us, who walks with us, and who invites us to be part of His eternal kingdom. But being part of His kingdom is not just about receiving blessings—it is about responding to His love with our own. It is about making Him the centre of our lives and living out His commandments to love God and others.
The question is, do we let Him reign in our hearts? Do we trust Him as our King? If we do, then every part of our lives—our thoughts, words, actions, and choices—should reflect His love. Let us follow our King with joy, knowing that His kingdom is not just about life on earth but also the promise of eternal life with Him in Heaven.
What Does This Mean for Us?
The Feast of Christ the King is not merely a historical event or a theological concept; it is an invitation to reflect on the personal and spiritual meaning of Christ’s kingship in our daily lives. To recognise Jesus as our King is to place Him at the very centre of our existence. It means surrendering our own desires, ambitions, and control, and submitting to His authority, trusting in His perfect wisdom and love. This submission is not one of oppression but of freedom—the freedom to live in harmony with God’s will and His eternal plan for us.
Making Jesus Christ the King of our hearts begins with a personal surrender to His will. It is about trusting Him completely to guide our choices, relationships, and priorities. When Jesus is truly our King, we allow Him to shape our values, influence our actions, and lead us closer to the life He has designed for us. This requires faith and humility, as well as a daily effort to align our lives with His teachings. It is not just about proclaiming Him as King with our words but living as though He truly reigns in every corner of our lives.
What I love about this feast is how it brings everything together. It is not just a reminder of Jesus’ kingship but a call to live in His kingdom here and now. Recognising Jesus as King reminds us of our role in building His kingdom here on earth. When Jesus said, “The Kingdom of God is among you” (Luke 17:21), He was teaching us that His reign begins in the hearts of those who follow Him. It is not a distant promise but a present reality that grows whenever we act in love, show mercy, or promote justice. Every time we reach out to someone in need, forgive someone who has hurt us, or stand up for what is right, we are participating in His kingdom. Even more so, every time we go to Holy Mass, receive the Eucharist, or seek reconciliation through the Sacrament of Confession, we are actively living as members of His divine kingdom. These sacred acts draw us closer to Christ, unite us with His Church, and allow His grace to work within us.
The Lord’s Prayer, or the Our Father, beautifully encapsulates this call to action: “Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in Heaven.” It is not a passive prayer but an invitation to align our lives with God’s will, building His kingdom here and now. When we pray, “Give us this day our daily bread,” we are not only asking for physical sustenance but also for the Bread of Life—Jesus Himself in the Eucharist, who strengthens us to carry out His mission of love and service. Through every act of charity, every sacrament received, and every moment we strive to do God’s will, we are living as faithful citizens of Christ’s kingdom. These actions are not just earthly deeds—they are glimpses of the heavenly kingdom to come.
Yet the Feast of Christ the King also points us beyond this world. It reminds us that our ultimate destination is not here but in the eternal kingdom where Christ reigns in glory. His second coming will bring the fulfilment of everything we hope for and strive towards. This feast calls us to live with our eyes fixed on eternity, preparing ourselves for the day when we will stand before Him as our Judge and King. Every choice we make in this life is a step toward that eternal reality. Are we living as loyal subjects of His kingdom? Are we building our lives on the foundation of His truth, or are we clinging to the temporary and fleeting things of this world?
This is the spiritual significance of the Feast of Christ the King: it challenges us to examine our hearts, renew our commitment to Christ, and strive to live as faithful citizens of His kingdom. It is a reminder that His reign is not just over the heavens and the earth but also over the deepest parts of our lives. By surrendering to Him, working for His kingdom, and preparing for the life to come, we proclaim Him not only as the King of the universe but as the King of our hearts and souls.
One King, One Kingdom, One Church
In the same way that Jesus Christ the King has one kingdom, He also established one Church—the One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic Church—to help us reach that kingdom. The Church is not merely a human institution but a divine reality founded by Jesus Himself. This is a profound truth: Jesus entrusted the care of His kingdom on earth to the Church, giving authority to guide, teach, and sanctify His people. The Church is our compass, leading us to the eternal kingdom of Heaven, the very heart of Christ’s kingship.
The Church is often described as a sacrament, a visible sign of an invisible reality. While the fullness of Christ’s kingdom is spiritual and eternal, the Church manifests it here on earth. Through her teachings, sacraments, and communal worship, the Church becomes the tangible presence of Christ’s love and grace in the world. Each sacrament we receive—whether it is baptism, the Eucharist, or reconciliation—is an encounter with the living Christ. Through the Church, we see and experience the mercy, healing, and saving power of our King. She reminds us that the kingdom is not a distant dream but a reality we are called to live out daily.
The unity of the Church mirrors the unity of Christ’s kingdom. Just as there is one King and one kingdom, there is one Church, which is universal and united under the leadership of the successor of Saint Peter, the Pope. This unity is not a coincidence but a reflection of Jesus’ will. In John 17:21, Jesus prayed, “That they may all be one, as you, Father, are in me and I in you.” The Church’s mission is to gather God’s people into one body, drawing them together in love and truth. Through her teachings and sacraments, the Church preserves the unity of faith and leads her members to the eternal embrace of their King.
Furthermore, the Church serves as a beacon of truth and a source of grace in a world often clouded by confusion and sin. She is the light of Christ shining in the darkness, calling people to repentance, conversion, and holiness. The Church, as the Mystical Body of Christ, works tirelessly to prepare her members for the fullness of life in His kingdom. She is both a refuge for sinners and a school of discipleship, guiding us to grow in love for God and neighbour. Through her, we are equipped to live out the mission Jesus gave us: to build His kingdom on earth and to prepare for the eternal kingdom in Heaven.
Ultimately, the Church exists to bring us to Christ, the King of Kings, and to help us share in His glory. She is the bridge that connects the visible world to the invisible kingdom of God. In the Church, we find the tools we need for salvation—the Word of God, the sacraments, the guidance of the Magisterium, and the communion of saints. Through her, we are nourished by Christ’s grace and united with Him in love. To be part of the Church is to live under the reign of Christ the King, striving for holiness and working toward the eternal kingdom He has promised.
Preparing for Advent
The Feast of Christ the King is a fitting bridge as we transition into Advent, the season of anticipation and preparation for Jesus’ coming. This feast invites us to reflect deeply on the nature of Christ’s kingship and how we honour it in our daily lives. Recognising Jesus as King is not just about acknowledging His authority but about preparing our hearts to welcome Him more fully. As the liturgical year draws to a close, we are called to take stock of our spiritual journey and ask ourselves: is Christ truly reigning in our hearts? This reflection naturally sets the stage for the spiritual renewal that Advent calls us to embrace.
Advent is a time of waiting and hope, and the Feast of Christ the King reminds us of what—or rather, who—we are waiting for. The King of Kings, who reigns over all creation, first came to us in the humblest of ways: as a vulnerable baby born in a manger. This profound mystery of God’s love is what Advent invites us to contemplate. As we prepare for Christmas, we remember that the same Jesus who reigns eternally is the one who chose to dwell among us, bringing salvation through His humility and sacrifice. This duality of His kingship—majestic yet tender—gives depth to our Advent preparation.
The transition from the Feast of Christ the King into Advent also reminds us of the connection between Jesus’ first coming and His promised second coming. During Advent, we not only prepare to celebrate His birth in Bethlehem but also anticipate His return in glory as King and Judge. The feast helps us keep our eyes fixed on this dual perspective, encouraging us to live with an awareness of Christ’s presence in the present while preparing for the fulfilment of His kingdom in the future. It is a call to align our hearts with His, living each day as loyal members of His kingdom.
By ending the liturgical year with Christ the King and beginning anew with Advent, the Church gives us a clear roadmap for our faith journey. The feast challenges us to renew our commitment to Jesus as King, while Advent provides the opportunity to act on that commitment through prayer, repentance, and acts of love. It is a beautiful reminder that the King who rules the universe desires to reign in our hearts, calling us to embrace His kingdom with open hearts and minds. As we prepare for Advent, let us carry the lessons of Christ the King with us, allowing His kingship to shape our anticipation and celebration of His coming.
Books for Further Reading:
"The Kingship of Christ and the Conversion of the Jewish Nation" by Saint John Henry Newman - A Theological Insight into Christ’s Rule and its Meaning for the World Today
"City of God" by Saint Augustine of Hippo - Understanding God’s Eternal Kingdom Versus Earthly Powers
"Jesus of Nazareth: From the Baptism in the Jordan to the Transfiguration" by Pope Benedict XVI - Discovering the Mission and Kingship of Christ through His Life and Teachings
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