Abstract
Christ the King Sunday celebrates Jesus’ role as King over all. However, we must recall that Jesus is King because he is a servant to all. Jesus’ kingship is one of power and might, but also humility.
Collect
“Eternal Father,
Whose Son, Jesus Christ ascended to the throne of Heaven that he might rule over all things as Lord and King, keep the Church in the unity of the Spirit and in the bond of peace, and bring the whole created order to worship at his feet, who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.”
(Revised Common Lectionary NRSV)
I suggest for the following that the Leader faces the congregation to ask the question and the voices are individual members of the congregation placed strategically around the church, However, the responses could be said by the congregation as a whole.
Leader
Who is Christ the King?
Voice 1
He is the Shepherd King.
He is the Good Shepherd who lays down his life for his flock.
He knows his own and his own know him.
Leader
Who is Christ the King?
Voice 2
He is the Servant King.
He came, not to be ministered to, but to minister, and gave his life for us.
We are called by his love to serve one another.
Leader
Who is Christ the King?
Voice 3
He is the Sacrificial Lamb who takes away the sins of the world.
He will remember their sins and their lawless deeds no more, and will lead us to eternal life
Leader
Who is Christ the King?
Voice 4
He is the Prince of Peace and the government will be on his shoulders. He will keep in perfect peace, those whose minds are steadfast.
Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and mutual affection. He is the King of Glory.
All
Intercessions
Heavenly King,
You are the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. We come to you this day with all humility to bring our prayers and thanks.
We ask your blessing on your Church worldwide. Strengthen our faith that we may have the courage to proclaim your Majesty. Guide those in authority that they will lead us in your way to testify to your truth and be faithful witnesses to your goodness and love.
Lord, in your mercy,
Heavenly King,
You have dominion and glory and kingship over all nations and people. Guide the political leaders of the world to make the decisions that will bring peace to us all. We pray for all who are suffering because of man’s greed for riches and power. Bless and strengthen those who work to establish your kingdom of love in this world, even though by doing so they put themselves in danger.
Lord, in your mercy,
Heavenly King,
We pray for our community and neighbourhood and those who have the governance of our councils. Give them the integrity to administer the community affairs for the good of all. Help us to be ambassadors of your work as we go about our daily lives. May we serve others as we would wish to be served ourselves.
Lord, in your mercy,
Heavenly King,
You came as a healer and comforter to those suffering in body, mind or spirit. Give us your compassion that we too will bring comfort to those whom we know need your healing power. Bless all those who work in the healing and caring professions and give them the strength to cope with the heartbreak and problems that they encounter.
Lord, in your mercy,
Heavenly King,
You promised that in your Father’s house are many mansions.
We bring before you those souls who have recently departed this world, and ask that they may find everlasting life in your presence. Bless those that mourn and comfort them with the knowledge of your love.
Lord, in your mercy,
We bring our prayers to you with gratitude and praise. Accept our homage and our hearts in the service of your Kingdom here on earth.
Prayer
“You are holy, Lord, the only God
And your deeds are wonderful.
You are strong, you are great.
You are the most high, you are almighty.
You, holy Father, are King of heaven and earth.
You are Three and One, Lord God, all good.
You are good, all good, supreme good.
Lord God, living and true.
You are love, you are wisdom.
You are humility, you are endurance.
You are rest, you are peace.
You are joy and gladness, you are justice and moderation.
You are all our riches and you suffice for us.
You are beauty, you are gentleness.
You are our protector, you are our guardian and defender.
You are courage, you are our haven and our hope.
You are our faith, our great consolation.
You are our eternal life, great and wonderful Lord,
God Almighty, merciful Saviour.”
(St Francis of Assisi)