From the Pastor – Solemnity of Christ the King
From the Pastor – Solemnity of Christ the King
On this last Sunday of Ordinary Time for the liturgical year, we celebrate the Feast of Christ the King. This feast was instituted by Pope Pius XI in 1925, at a time when the world was experiencing a rise of secularism, materialism and individualism, and an increasing denial of Christ’s existence and authority.
The hope was that the establishment of this feast would accomplish three goals — that nations would see that the Church has the right to freedom, that leaders and nations would see that they are required to give respect to Christ, the King of kings, and that the faithful would be strengthened and encouraged by the reminder that Christ must reign in our hearts, minds, wills and bodies.
This feast is needed more than ever for all people and for us especially, as Christian stewards. It reminds us of three vital truths. First, even when it seems the world is spinning out of control, we need not fear because we have a King of kings who is very much in charge and who is loving, merciful and just. Second, if Christ is king of all, then He is also king of me, personally. I am not “lord” of my time, talents, and treasure. He is. I am a servant of the King and a steward of His gifts to me. Third, as His disciple, I am called to imitate my King. Christ’s kingship is characterized by humble service, by emptying Himself for the good of others, The Scriptures tell us He went about doing good and He says of Himself, “I came not to be served but to serve.” How can I live in any other way than as a humble servant like my King?
Pastoral Pondering
In addition to the Holiday season now being in full swing, the cold and flu season are also upon us. With that being said, next weekend, the first Sunday of Advent, we will discontinue distribution of the Precious Blood until the Spring thaw (Easter usually). Also, please be mindful that because of cold and flu, some people are not comfortable exchanging the sign of peace. It is fine to say “peace be with you” without shaking hands; fist bumps are optional. :)
Room in the Inn begins on December 4th. I do hope you and your family will take some time to welcome the neighbors to St. Mark. In my discussions with folks that have helped in years past, young and old alike, they experience innumerable blessings by being Christ to those who come to us.
Along the same lines, please don’t forget to return your Angel Tree gifts in a timely fashion so that they can reach the recipients for Christmas. I want to thank all of the volunteers who “man” the trees and keep track of the angels and do so much to ensure that those in need receive a bit of Christmas cheer. Some have asked what else they might do to assist those in need at this time of year. What we find in the parish office is oftentimes a need for gift cards. Visa gift cards are very helpful because the recipient can use it for any number of purposes. Obviously, donations to our St. Vincent de Paul Society also does a lot to assist those in need, especially with heating fuel and other necessities during the cold winter months. God bless each of you for responding with a generous heart.