Social Reign of Jesus Christ
The Catholic concept of the Social Reign of Jesus Christ[1] or Social Kingship of Christ, as articulated in the encyclical "Quas Primas" by Pope Pius XI, emphasizes the universal kingship of Christ over all aspects of human life, both personal and societal.[2] Pope Saint Pius X also spoke about the notions of the doctrine.[3]
- 1. Basis of Christ's Kingship: The encyclical recognizes that Christ's kingship is not a result of force or usurpation but is inherent in His essence and nature. It is founded on the hypostatic union, making Christ deserving of adoration and obedience from both angels and men. (See Natural Law)
- 2. Threefold Power of Christ: The lordship of Christ consists of a threefold power essential to His kingship. This includes His role as a lawgiver, judge, and executor of divine commands. Christ's dominion extends to all creatures, and obedience to Him is a fundamental duty.
- 3. Individual Submission to Christ: The faithful are called to submit all aspects of their lives to the dominion of Christ. This includes the mind, will, heart, and body. Christ must reign in their thoughts, actions, desires, and physical being, guiding them towards perfection and obedience to God's laws.
- 4. Universal Dominion of Christ: The Social Reign of Jesus Christ encompasses all humanity, not just those within the Church. All individuals, families, and nations are subject to the power of Christ. Salvation is found in Him alone, and true prosperity for societies is rooted in acknowledging His kingship.
- 5. Role in Society: Acknowledging Christ as King has profound implications for society. It leads to real liberty, well-ordered discipline, peace, and harmony. The regal office of Christ elevates the authority of rulers and ennobles the duty of obedience among citizens. When Christ is recognized as King, society experiences blessings and stability.
- 6. Restoration of Public Authority: The encyclical highlights the decline of public authority when God and Jesus Christ are excluded from political life. True authority derives from God, and without this foundation, society faces instability and collapse. Recognizing Christ as King is essential for the preservation and prosperity of nations.
In conclusion, the Social Reign of Jesus Christ, as expounded in "Quas Primas," underscores the universal and all-encompassing authority of Christ over individuals and societies. Acknowledging His kingship leads to personal transformation, societal harmony, and the establishment of a just and peaceful order based on divine principles.
Political movements such as the Carlists in Spain and the Cristeros in Mexico promoted this notions, the last one invented the harangue ¡Viva Cristo Rey! (Christ is King!) during their war against a secular, liberal Anti-God state.
References
- ↑ Stefano Fontana. The doctrine of the social reign of Christ - A still valid principle. Catholic.net. “This doctrine belongs to the tradition of the Church and, as such, is also valid today and will always be”
- ↑ POPE PIUS XI (December 11, 1925). QUAS PRIMAS. The Catholic Church.
- ↑ Luis Cano Medina (2003) (in es). San Pío X y el reinado social de Cristo. Rome: FACULTAD DE TEOLOGIA - PONTIFICIA UNIVERSIDAD DE LA SANTA CRUZ. https://www.isje.org/cano/LuisCanoMedina-SanPIoXyelreinadosocialdeCristo.pdf.