Christ the King

The Feast of Christ the King closes the liturgical year on the last Sunday before Advent begins, proclaiming Jesus Christ as sovereign ruler over all creation, history, and the human heart. Pope Pius XI instituted the feast in 1925 through the encyclical Quas Primas, responding to the rise of secularism, nationalism, and totalitarian ideologies that claimed ultimate authority over human life. The feast draws on Jesus's own words to Pilate, that his kingdom is not of this world, reframing kingship not as political domination but as self giving love and truth. Catholic parishes observe it as one of the newer additions to the church calendar, and many Anglican, Lutheran, and other Protestant traditions have since adopted it as well, placing it at the close of Ordinary Time. Orthodox churches do not observe this specific feast, since their liturgical calendar developed independently and expresses Christ's kingship through other feasts across the year.

John 18:37

“Pilate therefore said to him, "Are you a king then?" Jesus answered, "You say that I am a king. For this reason I have been born, and for this reason I have come into the world, that I should testify to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth listens to my voice."”

Catholic and Anglican parishes celebrate Mass or a Sunday service with white or gold vestments, readings that recount Christ's kingship, and hymns such as Crown Him with Many Crowns or Rejoice, the Lord Is King. Some parishes hold eucharistic adoration or a procession of the Blessed Sacrament. Preaching typically contrasts worldly power with Christ's servant kingship. Because the feast falls on the last Sunday of the church year, it also serves as a hinge point, closing one liturgical cycle before Advent and a new year begin the following Sunday.

Christ the King is one thread in the wider rhythm of the church year. See how it sits alongside the other feasts on the full Christian holiday calendar, or read more about Reformation Day and The Transfiguration. To understand how these observances shaped the nation, visit our Faith & America hub, and keep the Christian glossary close for any unfamiliar terms.