Dear Parishioners,

This weekend is the Feast of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe or what we have more often called, Christ the King. While Christ has always been King, the Feast was not instated until 1925 by Pope Pius XI in response to the growing secularism and atheism in the world. During this time in Mexico, Russia and other parts of Europe there were militant secularistic regimes that threatened and persecuted the Catholic Church. In Mexico, many faithful Catholics called the “Cristeros” were martyred for the faith and the great cry “Viva Cristo Rey” became their last words. They kept Christ the King as the center of their lives despite anti-Christian governments.

Secular thought, atheism and agnosticism continue to grow. Christian anthropology, teachings, prayers and practices are scorned and ridiculed. We live in apostolic times—meaning we no longer live in the world of Christendom where Christian teachings, morals and values are part of the main stream culture. Have no fear, despite what might be happening in our world and country, one thing remains the same—Christ is the King of the Universe. No government, political system, philosophy or leader will solve the challenges that have plagued mankind since the fall. Jesus, Christ the King, is the One...He is the way, the truth and the life.

For this reason, we complete a Church year remembering and honoring Christ the King. After the 9:00am and 11:00 am Masses, we will process with our Eucharist King around the parish campus. This procession is meant to remind us that after every Sunday and daily Mass we are called to carry, but also follow, Christ the King in all we do, especially here on this campus, but also as you drive away to your homes and daily work. We invite Jesus to be the ruler of our heart, mind and soul.

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.’ - Papal Encyclical—Quas primas (in the first), 33.

Next Sunday, December 3rd is the first Sunday of Advent. The Advent wreath will be out in the Church to help us mark our journey for the four weeks. Advent wreaths and Advent calendars can be a wonderful way to bring the season of hope and longing into your homes and family traditions. It is a time of joyful waiting and anticipation, one where we are called to watch, be alert and listen for the coming of our Savior.

Blessings and goodness on this Feast of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe.

Peace in Him,

Fr. Fred

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