Pope Pius the XI, who instituted the Feast of Christ the King in response to atheism and secularization states in his encyclical, Quas Primas (1925): “…those who belong to the Kingdom of Christ cannot be subject to any external power….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…He must reign in our wills…He must reign in our hearts…”
Ultimately this Feast reminds us that it is Our Lord who rules over all of creation, and all persons and principalities are subject to His reign.
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In the Old Rite, this Feast is celebrated on the last Sunday in October and precedes the Feast of All Saints on November 1st. This year the Feast of Christ the King falls on October 26th. The last Sunday of October is also the end of the liturgical year, and this Feast sets the crowning glory upon The Mysteries of the Life of Christ, which have been previously commemorated. Before celebrating the triumph of all the Saints, we proclaim and praise the glory of Him who triumphs in all the Saints. |
Icon of Christ PantocratorThis icon of Christ Pantocrator is the most common of the Byzantine representations, and ranks among those of Christ in Glory. His look alludes to judgement, and His right hand held in blessing, shows His tender authority. hrist holds the Gospel, a testament to its truth, and indicating that He is the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets. The red tunic depicts divinity as well as His shed blood for us, with the green cloak representing His human nature. The original, painted in 1260, can be found in an iconostasis in the Greek monastery of Chilandar, on Mount Athos. |
Whether you’ve been attending the Extraordinary Form of the Mass for years, or are merely curious about it, this guide is designed to open up the riches contained within the Mass to all. Inside, you will find a word-for-word English translation of the Latin text of the Mass, together with photos, diagrams, notes and explanations that will help you not only to follow along, but also to understand the history and significance of the Mass in which you are taking part. In addition, you will find sections explaining the main differences between the Ordinary and Extraordinary Forms of the Mass. |
