The liturgical year concludes with the solemnity of Christ the King. A title which reminds us of our allegiance to him as believers. It was in our mother’s arms that the moment of our being anointed with Chrism that the words “as Christ was anointed Priest, Prophet and King , so may you live always as a member of his body” were spoken. You will, of course, recall the positioning of screens for the anointing with oil of King Charles. This was followed by Prince William promising to be his liege servant. Reflect on the relationship we have as baptised and anointed members.
Bishop Richard’s Weekly Reflection
Dear brothers and sisters,
The feast we celebrate this Sunday was instituted by Pope Pius XI in 1925 – the 16th Centenary of the Council of Nicaea when the definition of Christ being consubstantial with the Father was made – an anniversary that the Church has been keeping again this year.
Jesus is our King – the word Christ means ‘the anointed one’ – and we are all called to share in His Kingship. Indeed, we are reminded of this at our baptism when we are anointed with Chrism in a prayer that speaks of our sharing in His Kingship.
In an age when there are so many challenges to the Christian Way, challenges to the Kingship of Christ, it is good for us to be able to celebrate this feast, for it reminds us of who we are, and it speaks of our destiny as the children of God.
Jesus, sprung from the race of David – who had been anointed by Samuel for his role as king – fulfils the Father’s plan. We read of this in today’s second reading. All is brought to fulfilment in the One who died on the Cross and rose from the dead; Christ who is the Word of God, Who existed before all things and in Whom all is created. We are His body; He is the head. He is King.
The Gospel this Sunday speaks of that destiny in a most powerful way. Jesus tells the thief who recognises the Lord’s goodness: “today, you will be with me in paradise.” These are words we must all wish to hear, for when we do we have confirmation of our destiny, we know we shall share in the life of the Anointed One, Christ our King – that we shall live the fullness of what it means to be His.
With every blessing,
+ Richard
Community Gathering
After Mass this Sunday an opportunity to meet up and hear about the Vision for the Parish of Brighton and Hove and our place in it.
Participation
There are some information videos from the Central Diocesan Offices about Finance and Health and Safety you may find informative.
Mass Schedule
- Sunday 23rd November 10am Christ the King
- Monday 24th November 8:15am St Mary’s House The Martyrs of Vietnam
- Wednesday 26th November 9:30am Susan Cook RIP
- Friday 28th November 9:30am The Holy Souls
- Saturday 29th November 8:15am HMP Lewes
- Sunday 30th November 10am 1st Sunday of Advent
School Admissions
A reminder of the necessity to do two things – 1 complete B&H council form 2 Complete the School SIF with Certificate of Baptism.
Advent Retreat Day
Saturday 6th December based at St John the Baptist, Kemp Town. Book with monksinthecity@worth.org.uk See poster.
Inauguration Of Two Surrey Areas
In the next few days the Bishop will inaugurate the Parish of Guildford and the Parish of Weybridge, just like B&H, gatherings of the existing parish communities.
Advent Sacrament Of Reconciliation
Like Lent this is a season when we should avail ourselves of the Sacrament of Reconciliation with individual confession: STM Saturday 11.30-12noon. St Mary’s Sats 5.15-5.45pm. As always by arrangement 01273 563017.
Christ is King, Let joy and gladness
Greet him let his courts resound
With the praise of faithful subjects
To his love in honour bound.
St Thomas More Church, Patcham, Brighton 