Today, November 26, is the Solemnity of Christ the King, when the Church celebrates the universal kingship of Jesus Christ.

The Solemnity of Christ the King was instituted by Pope Pius XI on December 11, 1925 to counter the increasing nationalism in the world and the attempts of secular governments to assume authority over the Church. Pope Pius XI reminded Christians that Christ is our King and merits greater allegiance than any secular prince, while also reminding secular rulers that the Church is the society founded by Christ and not subject to external powers.

In his encyclical Quas Primas, in which he instituted the Solemnity, Pope Pius XI said:

“If to Christ our Lord is given all power in heaven and on earth; if all men, purchased by his precious blood, are by a new right subjected to his dominion; if this power embraces all men, it must be clear that not one of our faculties is exempt from his empire. He must reign in our minds, which should assent with perfect submission and firm belief to revealed truths and to the doctrines of Christ. He must reign in our wills, which should obey the laws and precepts of God. He must reign in our hearts, which should spurn natural desires and love God above all things, and cleave to him alone. He must reign in our bodies and in our members, which should serve as instruments for the interior sanctification of our souls, or to use the words of the Apostle Paul, as instruments of justice unto God.” – Quas Primas, 33

May Christ reign forever in our hearts, minds, bodies and souls. He is Lord of lords and King of kings. Viva Cristo Rey!

Be Christ for all. Bring Christ to all. See Christ in all.