The Feast of Christ the King, established by Pope Pius XI in 1925, serves as a reminder of Christ's universal kingship.
It was introduced in response to the rise of secularism, atheism, and political turmoil in the early 20th century. Pope Pius XI recognized the danger of pushing Jesus Christ and His law out of public life, which could lead to discord and chaos among nations and individuals. The Church calls on believers to acknowledge Christ's kingship not just privately but also publicly, living out their faith fully.
The feast encourages Christians to declare to the world that Jesus is the Lord of the Church and the entire universe. The ultimate realization of Christ's reign is yet to come, but the Church continues to pray and work for its fulfillment. The Feast of Christ the King holds significant importance in the liturgical calendar, reminding believers of Christ's dominion over all aspects of their lives and the world. It emphasizes that Christ is not just for private devotion but a universal and eternal King who deserves honor, glory, and faith from all people.