Solemnity of Christ the King Year A

• First Reading – Ezekiel 34:11-12, 15-17: The Lord God promises to act as a shepherd to his scattered flock. He will rescue, pasture, and give them rest. He’ll seek the lost, return the strayed, heal the sick, and bind the injured. He will also judge between the different kinds of sheep in his flock.
• Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 23: The LORD is my shepherd who meets all my needs, guiding and sustaining me. I will dwell in his house forever, surrounded by his goodness and kindness.
• Second Reading – 1 Corinthians 15:20-26, 28: Christ has risen, initiating the resurrection for all. He’ll reign until all enemies, including death, are defeated. Ultimately, everything will be subjected to God.
• Gospel –Matthew 25:31-46: Jesus tells his disciples about the final judgment where people will be separated like sheep and goats. Those who helped the needy will inherit eternal life, being told that their good deeds were done unto Jesus himself. Those who neglected the needy will face eternal punishment.

The readings for the Solemnity of Christ the King Year A tell us that the kingship of Christ is one of a caring master who longs for us to live together in harmony in his kingdom. The first reading tells of the Lord gathering in his flock and tending to them. The second reading reminds us that everything is subject to Jesus Christ, including death. And in the gospel Jesus tells of the Judgement of the Nations, where those who served him in this life are separated from those who did not.

Some themes for this Sunday:

• Final Judgment: The gospel describes the final judgment of all nations, indicating a day of accountability for actions during earthly life.
• Moral Responsibility: The criteria for judgment are based on acts of kindness or neglect, emphasizing the importance of moral and ethical conduct.
• Corporal Works of Mercy: Feeding the hungry, visiting the sick, and clothing the naked are highlighted as virtuous deeds, stressing the spiritual value of compassion.
• Identification with Suffering: Jesus says that acts done to “the least of these” are done to him, suggesting a deep spiritual connection between God and those who suffer.
• Universality: The passage refers to “all the nations,” suggesting a universal scope for these spiritual principles.
• Social Justice: The emphasis on helping the marginalized connects with themes of social justice and activism.

See the Homilies and Reflections section and the More Thoughts section for further expansion on these readings and some reflection questions for the Solemnity of Christ the King Year A.

Sheep or Goat? A Corporal Works of Mercy Lesson Plan

The lesson plan on Corporal Works of Mercy aligns well with the biblical passage Matthew 25:31-46. In this passage, Jesus describes the final judgment, explaining that acts of kindness towards the “least of these” are considered acts towards Him. The Corporal Works of Mercy -feeding the hungry, giving drink to the thirsty, and so on – are practical ways to live out these teachings. The lesson plan offers concrete steps for understanding and practicing these acts of compassion. Therefore, it serves as a practical guide for applying the principles laid out for the Solemnity of Christ the King Year A, helping both educators and students put faith into action.

Prayer to Christ the King

The Prayer to Christ the King is a specific prayer that aligns with the Feast of Christ the King Year A. The prayer can also be part of a novena, a nine-day period of prayer. Starting the novena two Saturdays before the feast ensures it ends on the actual solemnity. This prayer is focused on recognizing Christ as the eternal King and asking for His reign in our hearts. It’s a fitting way to prepare for the feast, which celebrates the all-encompassing authority of Christ. By including it in a novena, you create a more extended time for reflection and commitment.

Christ the King Word Search Puzzle

The Christ the King Word Search Puzzle contains thirteen words related to Jesus Christ’s passion and kingship. Designed for use on the Solemnity of Christ the King Year A, the puzzle serves as an engaging activity to help individuals, especially younger ones, focus on the significance of the feast. By solving the puzzle, participants are encouraged to reflect on key aspects of Christ’s life and reign. This can be a useful supplement to more traditional forms of celebration or reflection, making it a versatile resource for anyone observing this solemnity.

Kingdoms Game

The Kingdoms Game is a simple activity where the objective is to form the largest kingdom. All that’s needed are materials for making a list. The game can be played in a group setting and is easy to set up. It is particularly suitable for the Solemnity of Christ the King Year A as it aligns with the theme of kingdoms and leadership. Participants can engage in a fun, competitive manner while also being reminded of the concept of Christ’s reign. This game can serve as a light-hearted yet thematic addition to celebrations or educational programs focused on this solemnity.

Crown the King Game

The Crown the King Youth Ministry Game is an active game where the goal is to knock off other players’ crowns while keeping your own intact. Ideally played outdoors, in a gym, or in a spacious meeting room, this game adds an energetic element to the Solemnity of Christ the King Year A celebrations. The game not only provides fun but also subtly echoes the theme of Christ’s kingship, where the ultimate “crown” is earned by righteous action. It’s a fitting choice for youth ministry activities focused on this solemnity, offering both entertainment and a thematic connection to the occasion.

Knight Me! Lesson Plan

The Knight Me Lesson Plan is designed to help youth think about their commitment to serving Christ the King. Appropriate for the Solemnity of Christ the King Year A, the plan includes activities and discussions that focus on the qualities required to be a “knight” in Christ’s kingdom. It encourages participants to consider how they can integrate these qualities into their daily lives. This lesson plan offers a structured way to delve into the themes of the solemnity, making it a relevant educational resource for youth groups, religious education classes, or family discussions on this important feast day.

Corporal Works of Mercy

The gospel reading for the Solemnity of Christ the King Year A is Matthew 25:31-46, which focuses on the final judgment and emphasizes acts of kindness as service to Christ. The Corporal Works of Mercy relate closely to this gospel passage. They outline practical deeds like feeding the hungry and visiting the sick, which align with the actions praised by Jesus in Matthew 25. By engaging with these works of mercy, individuals can better understand and embody the teachings presented in the gospel, making the resource a useful guide for observance and reflection during this solemnity.

The Book of Ezekiel: Prophetic Insights of Renewal

The first reading for the Solemnity of Christ the King Year A is from Ezekiel 34, which focuses on the imagery of God as the Good Shepherd. In this chapter, God promises to personally take care of His flock, seeking the lost and healing the injured. This theme pairs well with the concept of Christ as King, emphasizing qualities of compassionate leadership and care. The reading sets the stage for the feast day by highlighting the divine role as both ruler and caretaker, and it aligns with the messages conveyed in the gospel passage from Matthew 25:31-46.

Resources for the Gospel of Matthew

The gospel reading for the Solemnity of Christ the King Year A is Matthew 25:31-46. This passage discusses the final judgment, describing how Jesus will separate people like a shepherd separates sheep from goats. The criteria for judgment are acts of kindness, such as feeding the hungry and visiting the sick. These actions are seen as service to Christ Himself. The passage reinforces the theme of the solemnity, which celebrates Christ as the ultimate authority and King. It emphasizes the qualities expected of those in His kingdom – compassion, mercy, and active service to others.

Encountering Our King: Meditations on Christ the King

As the liturgical year culminates with the Solemnity of Christ the King Year A, this resource offers an enriching journey, reflecting on the many dimensions of Christ’s kingdom. We are invited to contemplate the humility and service of Jesus, contrasting with worldly notions of power, and to ponder his presence from the manger to the cross. It’s a compelling read for those seeking to align their lives more closely with Christ’s teachings, especially as we aspire to let His kingdom reign in our hearts and await its full realization. (Sponsored)

Meet the King

Jeff Cavins discusses the significance of the Feast of Christ the King Year A, which marks the end of the liturgical year. He emphasizes that this day is the culmination of a year-long focus on the kingship of Jesus. Cavins challenges listeners to recognize that they encounter Jesus in everyday life, often in unexpected places like helping the poor or visiting those in prison. He cites Matthew 25:31-46, which underscores that acts of kindness are seen as service to Christ. Cavins encourages people to be mindful of daily opportunities to encounter Jesus and to make Him the ruler of their lives.

Heaven: You’re Not Good Enough (and why that’s ok)

Father Mike Schmitz discusses the idea of “being good enough,” using the Olympics as an analogy. He talks about realizing he’s not skilled enough for any Olympic sport, even curling or luge, which seem simpler. He connects this to the belief that some people think they are good enough to go to heaven just because they haven’t done anything terribly wrong. Fr. Mike argues that no one is inherently good enough for heaven; it’s not about earning it through deeds. Instead, it’s about accepting the grace offered by God and being willing to surrender to the Lord.

He Reigns!

Bishop Robert Barron’s homily for the Solemnity of Christ the King Year A delves into the concept of kingship in the Bible. He discusses the longing for a true king, represented by Jesus, who is both human and divine. Barron outlines how the Old Testament leads up to this fulfillment in Jesus, who exercises his kingship by uniting communities, offering forgiveness, and challenging societal injustices. The homily also touches on the tension between democratic ideals and the concept of divine kingship. Barron concludes by emphasizing the revolutionary nature of recognizing Jesus as the true King, a belief that challenges worldly powers.

When the End Comes

Scott Hahn’s reflection on the Solemnity of Christ the King Year A focuses on the end of time and divine judgment. He references biblical texts to explain that Jesus, as the divine shepherd and king, will judge us based on our acts of mercy and love towards others. Hahn emphasizes that true faith must be expressed through works of love. Our relationship with God is reflected in how we treat our neighbors. Hahn concludes by urging us to follow Jesus’ example so that we may inherit the eternal kingdom promised to us.

God Will Shepherd His People

In Bishop Robert Barron’s homily for the Solemnity of Christ the King Year A, he focuses on the idea that God himself will come to shepherd His people, fulfilling the prophecy from Ezekiel. Barron discusses how poor leadership led to the downfall of Israel and how Christ, unlike past leaders, acts in the person of God to shepherd His flock. He ties this to the feast’s original context in the 20th century, which was created in opposition to rising totalitarian regimes. Barron urges listeners to examine their actions against Matthew 25, where good deeds towards the needy reflect one’s faithfulness to Christ the King.

Shepherding with Christ the King

The first reading for the Solemnity of Christ the King Year A from Ezekiel emphasizes God as a Shepherd King. God commits to actively seeking out, caring for, and restoring his “scattered sheep.” This image of God as a shepherd is deeply comforting and creates a sense of a hands-on God, one who is fully involved in the well-being of His people. It makes us ponder how we are being shepherded in our lives today and how we can extend that shepherding to others.

The reading also highlights God’s commitment to justice and righteousness. God states that He will differentiate “between one sheep and another, between rams and goats.” This presents a God who is discerning and fair, caring especially for the “lost,” “strayed,” “injured,” and “sick,” while holding the “sleek and the strong” accountable. This challenges us to align ourselves with God’s sense of justice. Are we doing enough to reach out to those who are marginalized or suffering?

In reflecting on this reading, we are reminded that our role as followers of Christ the King is not passive. We’re called to be active participants in God’s shepherding. Whether it is by seeking the lost or binding up the injured in our own communities, we share in the work of our Shepherd King. Doing so not only brings us closer to God but also makes us instruments of His divine care and justice.

Don’t Be a Goat

In the Matthew 25:31-46, the gospel for the Solemnity of Christ the King Year A, presents Jesus as both a shepherd and a king. This dual role signifies a leader who not only rules but also nurtures and protects. The sheep in the metaphor are those who follow Christ’s example by showing compassion and service to others. Whether it’s volunteering at a soup kitchen, taking care of the sick, or advocating for social justice, these actions align with Christ’s teachings.

Contrastingly, the goats represent those who turn a blind eye to the suffering of others. Indifference or rationalizing the plight of the marginalized reflects a departure from the core Christian teaching of empathy and love. Instead of blaming people for their misfortune, our faith calls us to uplift those who are vulnerable and marginalized.

Following Christ, our Shepherd King, means more than just adhering to rules; it means living a life of service and advocacy. When we assist those who are struggling, we are serving Christ Himself. Thus, caring for the needs of others isn’t just a good deed—it is a direct response to the teachings of Jesus, our King.

A Kingdom of Eternal Life

The second reading from Corinthians reminds us that Christ is the first to be raised from the dead, setting the stage for all who follow Him. In a world burdened by mortality and imperfection, the resurrection signifies Christ’s power over even the most formidable of foes: death. His reign continues until every opposing force is subdued, making Him the ultimate King whose sovereignty is unassailable.

Paul outlines a sequence: First Christ, then those who are His at His coming, and finally the end where every authority is destroyed. It’s a cosmic recapitulation where everything starts and ends with God. Christ hands the kingdom back to the Father, marking the culmination of a divine plan set in motion with the first sin. In Christ, humanity finds both its origin and its destiny.

As we celebrate the Solemnity of Christ the King Year A, we should consider what it means for our lives. Christ’s reign promises not a kingdom of worldly power but one of eternal life. Our role, then, is to align ourselves with Him, participating in the defeat of death and sin in our own lives. As we do, we prepare for the time when God will be “all in all.”

• How do you experience God as a “shepherd” in your own life?
• In what ways can you extend God’s shepherding care to others?
• What specific actions can you take to be an “active participant” in God’s work of shepherding?
• Can you identify times when you’ve acted more like a “goat” than a “sheep”?
• What barriers prevent you from showing compassion and service to others?
• How can you work on shifting from indifference to active care?
• Do you see Christ in the vulnerable in society?
• Which group do you have the most difficulty serving: the homeless, the sick, the imprisoned, someone else?
• Is there a time when an act of service changed you and your attitudes toward those you were serving?
• How does the idea of Christ conquering death influence your daily actions or choices?
• What does it mean for you to align yourself with Christ’s kingdom of eternal life?
• How does your understanding of Christ as King affect your views on life, death, and your ultimate destiny?

• Alleluia Sing to Jesus
• All Creatures of our God and King
• All Glory, Laud and Honor
• Come, Now Is the Time to Worship
• Crown Him with Many Crowns
• Doxology
• Forever Reign
• Here As in Heaven
• Hosanna
• King of My Heart
• Lift High the Cross
• Like a Shepherd
• Majesty
• Mighty to Save
• Our God Reigns (How Lovely on the Mountains)
• Our God Reigns
• Praise to the Lord the Almighty
• Shepherd Me O God
• Sing Hosanna to Our King
• The King of Glory
• The King of Love My Shepherd Is
• The King Shall Come When Morning Dawns
• The Lord Is My Shepherd
• The Servant King
• To Jesus Christ Our Sovereign King

What date is the Solemnity of Christ the King Year A?

The next date is Sunday November 22, 2026.
For other years see the links below:
Solemnity of Christ the King Year B
Solemnity of Christ the King Year C

What are the Mass readings for Sunday, the Solemnity of Christ the King Year A?

The Catholic Mass readings for Sunday November 22, 2026 are:
First Reading – Ezekiel 34:11-12, 15-17: God as the Shepherd
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 23: My Shepherd Provides
Second Reading – 1 Corinthians 15:20-26, 28: Christ Conquers Death
Gospel – Matthew 25:31-46: The Final Judgment

What Are the themes for the Mass readings for the Solemnity of Christ the King Year A?

The kingship of Christ, the role of God as shepherd, judgment, and the defeat of death are major themes.

How do the Mass readings for the Solemnity of Christ the King Year A relate?

Each reading offers a facet of divine care and ultimate judgment, connecting how God shepherds us in life and judges us in the end.

What’s the message of the first reading for the Solemnity of Christ the King Year A?

In Ezekiel 34, God promises to actively care for and judge His flock, delineating between different kinds of sheep.

What does the responsorial psalm for the Solemnity of Christ the King Year A convey?

Psalm 23 depicts God as a shepherd who provides, guides, and offers eternal fellowship.

What’s significant about the second reading for the Solemnity of Christ the King Year A?

1 Corinthians 15 underscores the idea that Christ’s resurrection sets the stage for the defeat of all enemies, including death.

What occurs in the gospel for the Solemnity of Christ the King Year A?

In Matthew 25:31-46, Jesus outlines the criteria for judgment, emphasizing that acts of kindness to the needy are like acts done to Him.

What’s the main theme of the gospel for the Solemnity of Christ the King Year A?

Matthew 25:31-46, often called the Parable of the Sheep and Goats, discusses the final judgment. It emphasizes the importance of caring for the “least of these” as a metric for righteousness.

Who are the ‘sheep’ and the ‘goats’ in the gospel for the Solemnity of Christ the King Year A?

In Matthew 25:31-46, the ‘sheep’ are those who have shown kindness and compassion, thereby serving Christ indirectly. The ‘goats’ are those who have ignored the needs of others and, by extension, Christ.

What does “the least of these” refer to in the gospel for the Solemnity of Christ the King Year A?

This term in Matthew 25:31-46 represents people who are marginalized or in need. Jesus lists various states of need, like hunger and imprisonment, as criteria.

Why does Jesus equate serving others with serving Him in the gospel for the Solemnity of Christ the King Year A?

The idea in Matthew 25:31-46 is that Christ is present in everyone, especially the needy. Serving them is, in essence, serving Christ. This challenges us to see the face of Christ in all people.

What’s the takeaway for everyday life for the gospel for the Solemnity of Christ the King Year A?

Matthew 25:31-46 tells us that compassion and service aren’t optional; they’re requirements for those who wish to follow Christ. Acts of kindness aren’t just charitable deeds; they’re moral imperatives that have eternal implications.

What are the practical applications for the Mass readings for the Solemnity of Christ the King Year A?

Consider how you can be a ‘shepherd’ in your own community by helping those in need and being a voice for justice.

Are any specific steps suggested by the Mass readings for the Solemnity of Christ the King Year A?

Engage in acts of charity and kindness, keeping in mind that according to the Gospel, these are considered acts done unto Jesus.

What’s the key takeaway for the Mass readings for the Solemnity of Christ the King Year A?

These readings collectively emphasize God’s role as a caring shepherd and a just judge, challenging us to align our actions accordingly.