Here at St. PHILIP the Apostle, WE CELEBRATE CHRIST THE KING.

.1. ### Celebrating Christ the King: A Reflection on Sovereignty and Service in the Catholic Faith

In the liturgical calendar of the Catholic Church, the Feast of Christ the King holds a significant place, celebrated on the last Sunday of the liturgical year. This feast, established by Pope Pius XI in 1925, serves as a powerful reminder of the sovereignty of Christ over all aspects of life and the universe. It invites the faithful to reflect on the nature of Christ's kingship, the implications of His reign, and the call to live out the values of His kingdom in a world often marked by division and strife.

2.#### Historical Context

The Feast of Christ the King was instituted during a time of great social and political upheaval in Europe. The early 20th century saw the rise of secularism, nationalism, and totalitarian regimes that challenged the authority of the Church and the moral order. In response, Pope Pius XI sought to reaffirm the centrality of Christ in the lives of believers and the importance of His teachings in guiding societal values. The encyclical "Quas Primas," which accompanied the establishment of the feast, emphasized that Christ's authority is not only spiritual but also extends to all realms of human existence.

3. #### The Meaning of Christ's Kingship

At the heart of the celebration is the understanding of Christ's kingship as fundamentally different from earthly power. Unlike worldly rulers who often wield authority through force or coercion, Christ's reign is characterized by love, humility, and service. The Gospel readings for this feast, particularly from the Gospel of John and Matthew, highlight the paradox of Christ's kingship, culminating in His crucifixion, where He is proclaimed "King of the Jews" in a moment of apparent defeat.

This paradox invites the faithful to reconsider their understanding of power and authority. In Christ's kingdom, greatness is found in serving others, and true leadership is marked by self-sacrifice. The call to celebrate Christ the King is, therefore, a call to embody these values in daily life, promoting justice, peace, and compassion in a world that often prioritizes self-interest and division.

4. #### The Call to Action

Celebrating Christ, the King is not merely a liturgical observance; it is a call to action for Catholics. The feast challenges believers to reflect on their own lives and the ways in which they can contribute to the establishment of God's kingdom on earth. This involves advocating for the marginalized, standing against injustice, and loving like Jesus thought us!