Christ the King Sunday

Christ the King

What Is Christ the King Sunday?

Christ the King Sunday is the final Sunday of the liturgical year, typically celebrated the Sunday before Advent begins. It proclaims the reign of Jesus Christ over all creation—past, present, and future. Instituted in 1925 by Pope Pius XI and embraced by many Protestant denominations, the day serves as a countercultural reminder that ultimate authority belongs not to earthly powers but to Christ alone.

The tone of the day is both triumphant and eschatological. Many churches focus on the cosmic rule of Christ, his coming kingdom, and the hope of justice and peace that his reign promises. It’s a fitting culmination of the church year, tying together themes from Advent through Pentecost and pointing forward to Christ’s return.

Some churches incorporate visual symbols such as crowns, white or gold paraments, and royal imagery in hymns and prayers to reinforce the theological message: Jesus is Lord of all.

What Does No Kings! Christ is King Mean?

The phrase “No kings! Christ is King” expresses a deep theological conviction: our ultimate allegiance belongs not to any earthly ruler or system, but to Jesus Christ. Saying “No kings” is a way of rejecting the claim of human leaders—whether political, military, or cultural—to absolute authority over our lives. This echoes the biblical tradition of resisting unjust rule, as seen in figures like Pharaoh, Herod, or Caesar. It’s a reminder that no matter how powerful a human authority might appear, they are not sovereign in the way God is.

At the same time, “Christ is King” affirms that Jesus reigns—but not like the kings of this world. His rule is marked by humility, love, justice, and peace. As Jesus Himself said, “My kingdom is not from this world” (John 18:36). To proclaim Christ as King is to place our hope in a servant-king who liberates rather than controls, who lays down His life rather than seizing power. It is a bold, countercultural declaration that Christ alone deserves our ultimate loyalty.

When Is Christ the King Sunday?

Christ the King Sunday is observed on the final Sunday before Advent begins. This makes it the last Sunday of the liturgical calendar—a moment to close the year by declaring Christ’s kingship.

Here are the upcoming dates for Christ the King Sunday:

• 2025 – November 23

• 2026 – November 22

• 2027 – November 21

• 2028 – November 26

• 2029 – November 25

This observance marks the transition from Ordinary Time to the hopeful waiting of Advent, affirming Christ’s eternal rule before we begin the story anew.

Is Christ the King a Recent Addition?

Yes, relatively speaking. Christ the King Sunday was added to the Christian calendar in the 20th century as a response to rising nationalism and secularism. Its purpose was to reassert Christ’s supremacy in a world tempted by political idolatry and moral relativism. Over time, it has become a powerful liturgical anchor at the close of the year, especially within Reformed, Anglican, Lutheran, and Methodist traditions.

Common Scriptures for Christ the King Sunday

These passages often appear in worship and preaching on Christ the King Sunday, each revealing different facets of Jesus’ kingship:

• John 18:33–37 – “My kingdom is not from this world…”

• Colossians 1:11–20 – “He is the image of the invisible God…”

• Daniel 7:9–14 – “One like a Son of Man coming with the clouds…”

• Psalm 93 – “The Lord is king, he is robed in majesty…”

• Revelation 1:4b–8 – “Jesus Christ…the ruler of the kings of the earth”