This is the closing week of the Church’s calendar year and so it is fitting that today, the final Sunday we celebrate the Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe. This feast invites us to contemplate the true nature of Christ’s reign, a reign unlike any other. It is a reign founded not on earthly power or worldly dominion, but on love, humility, and service.
In the Gospel reading, Jesus speaks of his kingdom not of this world. He does not seek to conquer through force or coercion, he offers a kingdom of peace, justice, and eternal life. This kingdom is built upon the foundation of his sacrificial love, poured out on the cross for the salvation of humanity.
Reflecting on the kingship of Christ we are reminded of the radical nature of his reign. He is the King who washes the feet of his disciples, the King who embraces the marginalized and the outcast. He is the King who calls us to follow him on the path of self-denial and love of neighbor.
This call to discipleship is not always easy. It requires us to embrace the cross, to carry our own bur-dens, and to love even our enemies. Yet, in doing so, we participate in the very reign of Christ. We become co-creators of his kingdom, building a world marked by compassion, justice, and peace.
As we celebrate this feast, let us renew our commitment to Jesus Christ, our Lord and King. Let us strive to live as faithful disciples of his kingdom, embodying his values of love, humility, and service. Let us pray for the grace to overcome sin and selfishness, and to embrace the path of salvation by following the Way, the Truth, and the Life: our Lord Jesus Christ.
As we gather together and celebrate Thanksgiving with our family and friends may our hearts overflow with gratitude. This year, like any other, has presented its own unique challenges and blessings. Yet, through it all, our community here at St. Jude Church has remained a steadfast source of love, support, and faith. Let us remember to give thanks for all that we have been given. Let us also extend our gratitude to those who may be less fortunate, and let us strive to be a source of hope and healing for those in need.
I want to thank all of you for your unwavering commitment to our faith and our community. I want to thank all of our volunteers at our Parish Outreach and for all of your charitable donations to help feed those in need within our parish community. I want to thank our Rosary Altar Society for all you do and for last week’s Bake Sale where the proceeds went to our Parish Outreach. Thank you! And the countless acts of kindness and compassion all of you, the St. Jude Parish family, extend to one another, and your generosity to help those in need truly embody the spirit of Christ.
May this Thanksgiving be a time of reflection, renewal, and deep gratitude. May we carry the spirit of thanksgiving throughout the year, cherishing the blessings in our lives and sharing them with others.
Have a Blessed and Happy Thanksgiving!
St. Jude, pray for us
~ Blessings and Joy,
Fr. Ryan