Overview: A Milestone Commemorated on the Feast of Christ the King
On the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the feast of Christ the King, EWTN has released a four-part docuseries titled “The Kingship of Christ.” The project, announced as the liturgical calendar converges on November 23, invites viewers to reflect on the foundational Catholic claim that Christ’s sovereignty extends over all creation. The series uses historical analysis, theological reflection, and personal testimonies to trace how the idea of Christ the King has shaped worship, doctrine, and everyday devotion since its formal establishment in 1925.
Episode Structure: From Theology to Liturgy
The docuseries is built around four thematic episodes, each focusing on a pillar of Christ’s kingship as understood in Catholic tradition. Viewers can expect a careful blend of scripture scholarship, ecclesial history, and contemporary witness, illustrating how the kingship of Christ informs decisions in parishes, homilies, and lay prayer life. The episodes explore:
- The scriptural basis for Christ’s universal rule and its implications for justice and peace.
- The historical development of the feast and its reception in different cultures and languages.
- How liturgy and sacred art have depicted Jesus as king, shaping popular devotion and catechesis.
- Modern applications: service, mercy, and the responsibility of Christians to align civic life with Christ’s reign.
Interviews and Insights: Voices from Across the Church
One of the series’ strengths is its use of diverse voices from theologians, pastors, and laypeople. By contrasting scholarly perspectives with eyewitness accounts from believers in parish life, the docuseries presents a holistic view of what it means to acknowledge Christ as sovereign in a pluralistic world. These conversations underscore a recurring theme: the kingship of Christ is not merely a title but a call to holiness, stewardship, and fearless advocacy for human dignity.
The Theological Thread: Kingdom, Service, and Mercy
At its core, the Kingship of Christ emphasizes service over power. The series argues that true kingship in the Christian sense is measured by self-giving love, sacrifice, and an active commitment to the vulnerable. This ethical framework echoes through discussions of social teaching, charity, and community leadership, inviting viewers to consider how faith translates into concrete action in schools, hospitals, and public life. The documentary also addresses common questions about authority, obedience, and the continuity between Christ’s reign and the episcopal and papal leadership that guides the Church today.
Why This Anniversary Matters Now
Marking a century since the feast’s formal recognition, the docuseries situates the kingship of Christ as a living tradition rather than a historical curiosity. In a time of global upheaval and rapid cultural change, the program offers a compass for Catholics and interested viewers seeking stability, hope, and a sense of belonging rooted in a transcendent authority. By revisiting key moments in the Church’s memory, the series also invites younger generations to engage with doctrinal depth and practical faith formation.
Where to Watch and What to Expect
Produced for a broad audience, the series is accessible to both longtime Catholics and curious seekers. Expect clear narration, archival imagery, and contemporary footage that together illuminate the enduring message of Christ’s kingship. As the feast of Christ the King continues to be celebrated around the world, the docuseries provides a timely reminder that sovereignty in the Christian sense is inseparable from mercy, justice, and the dignified treatment of every person.
