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SOLEMNITY OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST, THE KING

Discover the Catholic Liturgical, Historical, and Theological Overview of Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe.
Image of Jesus Christ, King of the Universe


By Edward Matulanya 

A Roman Catholic Liturgical, Historical, and Theological Overview of Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe.

Introduction of Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King 

The Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe (commonly called Christ the King) is a major feast in the Roman Catholic Church celebrating the universal kingship of Jesus Christ. The Church teaches that Christ, risen and glorified, is “Lord of the cosmos and of history,” and that His reign is eternal (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1997, para. 668). The celebration emphasizes that Christ rules not by force, but through truth, love, and self-sacrifice (John 18:36, New Revised Standard Version, 1989).

Historical Background of Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King 

The feast was established in 1925 by Pope Pius XI in his encyclical Quas Primas, during a time of increasing secularism, nationalism, and rejection of religious influence in public life (Pius XI, 1925). Following World War I, many societies placed growing trust in political ideologies rather than Christian moral authority. Pope Pius XI (1925) responded by declaring that true peace can only exist when individuals and nations recognize the reign of Christ.

Originally, the feast was celebrated on the last Sunday in October, before All Saints Day, to demonstrate that Christ’s kingship exists even above the saints (Pius XI, 1925).

Change of Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King Following Vatican II

In 1969, the celebration was moved to the last Sunday of the liturgical year by Pope Paul VI (1969). This shift highlights the belief that Christ is the ultimate fulfillment of history and the final judge of all creation.

Theological Significance of Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King 

The Church teaches that Jesus Christ is King for several reasons as explained below.

1. By His divine nature as the eternal Son of God (CCC, 1997, para. 443).

2. By His victory over sin and death through the Resurrection (Philippians 2:8–11).

3. By His mission to proclaim the Kingdom of God, a kingdom of justice, peace, and love (Pius XI, 1925).

However, Christ's kingship is not political or militaristic. According to Sacred Scripture, Jesus states.

> “My kingdom is not of this world” (John 18:36, NRSV, 1989).

This means His reign is spiritual and focused on transforming hearts and societies through mercy and truth (CCC, 1997, para. 2816).

Liturgical Celebration of Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King 

The solemnity uses Sacred Scripture readings that emphasize Christ’s eternal reign and final judgment. A common Gospel reading for the feast (Matthew 25:31–46) depicts Christ enthroned in glory as judge of all nations. The priest wears white or gold vestments, symbolizing Christ’s victory and majesty (Roman Missal, Paul VI, 1969).

Contemporary Significance of Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King 

The solemnity remains highly relevant because modern society often elevates materialism, personal autonomy, and political ideologies above religious belief. The feast serves as a reminder that no earthly power is absolute, and that human freedom and dignity are fulfilled when people live according to Christ’s teaching (CCC, 1997, para. 1900).

Conclusion of Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King 

The Solemnity of Christ the King affirms that Jesus Christ is the eternal ruler of all creation, whose kingdom is built on truth, justice, peace, and love. Instituted in a time of global political turmoil, the feast continues to challenge believers to place Christ at the center of their lives and societies today.

References 

Catechism of the Catholic Church. (1997). Catechism of the Catholic Church (2nd ed.). Libreria Editrice Vaticana.

New Revised Standard Version Bible. (1989). National Council of Churches.

Paul VI. (1969). Missale Romanum. Vatican Publishing.

Pius XI. (1925). Quas primas [On the Feast of Christ the King]. Libreria Editrice Vaticana.


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