Parishioners from across the Blue Mountains gathered in joyful celebration to commemorate the Solemnity of Christ the King on Sunday 23 November with a Eucharistic procession.
In a first for the Blue Mountains Deanery, members of the faithful walked with the Blessed Sacrament as it journeyed from the grounds of St Thomas Aquinas Primary School, Springwood, towards the parish church.
The Eucharistic procession on the Solemnity of Christ the King at St Thomas Aquinas Parish, Springwood. Image: Mary Brazell/Diocese of Parramatta
Parish Administrator Fr Jack Elkazzi, supported by Deacon Alan Skofic from the Parish of the Upper Blue Mountains, led the procession, accompanied by members of the Governor Macquarie Memorial Pipe Band, based in Western Sydney.
As the Blessed Sacrament moved into the church, parishioners paused in Benediction before Mass was celebrated for the feast day.
Parishioners pause in Benediction on the Solemnity of Christ the King at St Thomas Aquinas Parish, Springwood. Image: Mary Brazell/Diocese of Parramatta
During his homily, Fr Jack emphasised the importance of Christ ruling our hearts, so that we can share His love with the world.
“Christ the King is not a political ruler. He is a measurable proof of goodness. His Kingdom is built not of domination, but of love that conquers death.
“As St John Chrysostom preached, ‘He manifested His Kingdom not by saving Himself, but by saving others’.
“That’s what a true king does – He who lays down His life for his friends.
Parish Administrator Fr Jack Elkazzi delivers the homily during Mass for the Solemnity of Christ the King at St Thomas Aquinas Parish, Springwood. Image: Mary Brazell/Diocese of Parramatta
“The Kingship of our Blessed Lord is not a future dream – it does begin now.
“Our Blessed Lord Himself said, ‘the Kingdom of God is within you’. Every act of faith, every act of charity, every ‘yes’ to God will expand His world and His reign in our hearts and in the world.”
Liturgical celebrations ‘bring parishes together’
Deacon Alan, who helped organise the procession, said he wanted “something special” to commemorate the solemnity.
“I feel that people are drawn to major celebrations if there’s something special happening,” he said. “It really brings the parish together in celebrating their faith.”
“I felt it was extremely well organised, with very strong attention to detail during the Adoration, procession and Benediction.
“I appreciate the large number of young adult servers who assisted us, which shows that there is still an appeal for the younger generation to celebrate the traditions of the Church.
Parish Administrator Fr Jack Elkazzi leads the Eucharistic procession for the Solemnity of Christ the King at St Thomas Aquinas Parish, Springwood. Image: Mary Brazell/Diocese of Parramatta
“With the success this year, I am hopeful that we can have larger and more spectacular celebrations next year for Corpus Christi, the Assumption and again for Christ the King.”
100th anniversary of solemnity
2025 marks the 100th anniversary of the establishment of the Solemnity of Christ the King, instituted by Pope Pius XI in 1925 in response to growing secularism and atheism.
Celebrated on the last Sunday of the liturgical year, it celebrates Christ as King and Lord of the Universe. Although He is marked as a King, Jesus came not to be served, but to serve, and to give Himself to others, as reflected in the gospel of Luke read this year (Luke 23:35-43).
Parish Administrator Fr Jack Elkazzi leads Benediction during the Solemnity of Christ the King at St Thomas Aquinas Parish, Springwood. Image: Mary Brazell/Diocese of Parramatta
As preparation for the season of Advent, the Solemnity is a chance to pause and reflect on our journey of faith with Christ, and his second coming when He returns in glory at the end of time.
“Once men recognise, both in private and in public life, that Christ is King, society will at last receive the great blessings of real liberty, well-ordered discipline, peace and harmony.” (Pope Pius XI, Quas Primas, 1925, par 19).
International celebration of World Youth Day
Since 2021, the international Church’s recognition of World Youth Day also takes place on the Solemnity of Christ the King.
World Youth Day is celebrated at a diocesan level yearly, with the global celebration occurring every 3-4 years.
The next international World Youth Day takes place in Seoul, South Korea, in August 2027.
The Eucharistic procession aligns with the Diocesan Pastoral Plan’s priorities of Communion, Prayer and a Church being renewed in Spirit and Prayer.
View images from the procession on Flickr.
