What is Christ the King Sunday?

Christ the King Sunday holds a special place in the liturgical calendar of the Anglican Church. This feast, observed on the last Sunday before Advent, serves as a powerful reminder of the sovereignty of Christ and the significance of his reign in the hearts of Anglican believers. Rooted in centuries of tradition, this celebration stands as a testament to the Anglican commitment to worship, reflection, and the acknowledgment of Jesus as the supreme ruler.

The origins of Christ the King Sunday trace back to the Roman Catholic Church, where Pope Pius XI established it in 1925 as a response to the growing secularism and the challenges posed by ideologies that sought to replace Christ’s authority. The Anglican Communion embraced this celebration, recognizing the need to reaffirm the lordship of Christ in a world fraught with shifting values.

In Anglican churches around the globe, the liturgy of Christ the King Sunday includes readings, prayers, and hymns that emphasize Christ’s role as the ruler of all creation. The majestic language and rich symbolism create an atmosphere of reverence, inviting worshipers to reflect on the profound implications of Christ’s kingship in their lives.

At the heart of Christ the King Sunday is the recognition that Jesus is not just a historical figure but a living and present ruler. The chosen scripture passages include verses from the Psalms, the Old Testament prophets, and the New Testament Gospels that highlight the various aspects of Christ’s kingship. The Gospel reading often features the encounter between Jesus and Pilate, emphasizing Jesus’ declaration that his kingdom is not of this world.

Anglicans use Christ the King Sunday as a time for deep reflection on the implications of Christ’s kingship for their personal lives and the broader society. Sermons during this time may explore themes of justice, compassion, and the call to live in accordance with the values of the kingdom of God. It is a time to examine one’s allegiance and to recommit to the service of Christ as the ultimate sovereign.

In a world marked by shifting political landscapes and competing ideologies, Christ the King Sunday serves as a counter-cultural statement for Anglicans. It provides an opportunity to reaffirm faith in a kingdom not of this world, where Christ’s reign transcends political affiliations and cultural trends. This celebration challenges Anglicans to live out their faith with a sense of purpose and commitment to the values of the kingdom.