Online Church: @Our Lady of Africa Church Mbuya today, November 23, 2025

THE SOLEMNITY OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST, KING OF THE UNIVERSE 

Scripture Readings
- First Reading: 2 Samuel 5:1-3 - This passage recounts the moment when the twelve tribes of Israel recognized David as their king and pledged allegiance to him.
- Psalm: Psalm 122 - A prayer of joy and thanksgiving, expressing the psalmist's love for the city of Jerusalem and the temple.
- Second Reading: Colossians 1:12-20 - A hymn of praise to Christ, highlighting his role as the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation, and the head of the Church.
- Gospel: Luke 23:35-43 - The story of Jesus on the cross, where he is mocked and ridiculed, yet forgives the thief who asks for mercy.

Reflection:

The Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe
(often called Christ the King) is a major feast in the liturgical year of the Catholic Church — and some other Christian traditions — celebrating the full and eternal kingship of Jesus Christ.

Key Points About the Solemnity

• When it is celebrated:
It takes place on the last Sunday of the liturgical year, the Sunday before the First Sunday of Advent.

• Meaning and purpose:
The feast proclaims that Christ reigns over all creation — not only in a spiritual sense, but as Lord of history, truth, justice, and peace. It’s a reminder that, above every earthly power or system, Christ is the ultimate King.

• Scripture themes:
Readings typically emphasize:

Christ as the Shepherd-King

His kingdom of truth and life

His reign through self-giving love

The final judgment and the fullness of God’s kingdom

• Origin:
It was instituted by Pope Pius XI in 1925 in response to growing secularism. Later, after Vatican II, it was moved to the final Sunday of the liturgical year and given its current title emphasizing the cosmic scope of Christ’s reign.

Spiritual Focus

The solemnity invites believers to:

Reflect on what it means to let Christ rule in their lives

Look toward the ultimate fulfillment of God's kingdom

Celebrate Christ’s victory over sin and death