November 23, 2025 - The Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe

Dear Sisters and Brothers,

This weekend, together with Salvadoran community we celebrate the feast of The Queen of Peace, Patroness of El Salvador. But this final Sunday of the liturgical year brings us to the great Solemnity of Christ the King, a feast that invites us to look at Jesus’ kingship in a way very different from the powers of this world. Today’s Gospel places us not on a throne surrounded by glory, but at the foot of the Cross. Here is our King—crucified, vulnerable, mocked by those who cannot understand a kingship built on self-giving love.

In Luke’s Gospel, one of the criminals crucified beside Jesus utters a simple but profound prayer: “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” It is a moment of humility and trust, and Jesus responds with an astonishing promise: “Today you will be with me in Paradise.” This exchange reveals the heart of Christ’s reign. His kingdom is not won by force or domination, but by mercy, forgiveness, and the willingness to love even to the end.

As we conclude the liturgical year, the Church invites us to reflect on which kingdom shapes our daily lives. Do we allow Christ’s compassion, peace, and justice to guide our decisions and relationships? Do we recognize His presence in the poor, the suffering, and the overlooked? Christ the King calls us not just to admire Him, but to follow Him—to let His way of love reorder our priorities and renew our hearts.

Next week, we begin Advent and step into a season of hope and anticipation. But today, we pause to proclaim with the Church throughout the world: Jesus Christ is Lord! May His kingdom take deeper root in each of us, and may we, like the repentant thief, learn to entrust our lives into His merciful hands. Christ our King, reign in our hearts, our homes, and our world together with your Blessed Mother, The Queen of Peace!!!

May God bless everyone always!!!

Fr. Stan