by Fr. Kevin Joshua Cosme
Why do we acclaim Christ as “King”?
First, some history. The early 20th century was a tumultuous time. In the wake of the devastation of World War I, which ended in 1918, nations were desperately grasping for whatever could give them back some sense of control. Many started embracing fascism, communism, and National Socialism (the ideology of the Nazis), giving birth to totalitarians like Joseph Stalin and Adolph Hitler.
In those chaotic times and amidst the attempt of tyrants to remove God from society, Pope Pius XI instituted the Feast of Christ the King in 1925, hoping that the yearly feast would “hasten the return of society to our loving Savior.”
Today, on this great Solemnity, churches around the world resound with the majestic words Christus vincit! Christus regnat! Christus imperat! “Christ conquers! Christ rules! Christ reigns supreme!” The triumphant tone is clear. Christ reigns over all, ruling above every nation, tyrant, or claimant to the throne of the hearts of men.
If this is not apparent, it is because we, His subjects, have not yet made it so. We have the duty to advance the rule of Christ, which is after all a rule of love and service and peace. This is the last Sunday of the liturgical year and the placement of this Solemnity is strategic. We proclaim that at the end, Christ will reign as the triumphant King. Question is, by our conduct here on earth, will we reign with him in heaven?
Flex our Faith Episode 9: Christ the King | Aired on November 21, 2021