A weekly devotional blog by the Reverend Susan Montague Koyle. Drawing on liturgical notes and the commemorations of the saints, Rev. Susan offers teaching and inspiration for Anglicans across Algoma and beyond.
A Liturgical Note for You
The End of the Year — the Christian Year, That Is
The end of the Christian year is quickly approaching! On Sunday, November 23, we celebrate The Reign of Christ, marking the close of Year C and the beginning of Year A the following week — the First Sunday of Advent.
The Reign of Christ is always the final Sunday of the Season after Pentecost (note that there is no “Season of Pentecost”). It is the culmination of all that has come before and launches us into Advent with passionate hope, grounded in the knowledge that Christ is King of all things, reigning with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God.
On that Sunday, we hear the story of Jesus hanging on the cross between two others, enduring the excruciating and shameful death of crucifixion.
Why do we hear this story on the day we proclaim the Reign of Christ?
Because this passage powerfully reveals the vast difference between human ideas of kingdoms and rulers and the reign of God.
Victorious human kings aren’t executed — but in God’s kingdom, love, compassion, and forgiveness are the marks of true power. God’s victory is found not in domination, but in mercy.
In Christ’s death, we glimpse the heart of divine kingship: forgiveness and love even for those who do not ask for it — even for those who crucify the Lord of Life.
There is, of course, more to be said, and I hope you’ll hear a great sermon on that Sunday!
My own sermon for The Reign of Christ (Year C) can be found at Sermons & Reflections: Year C.
For Your Devotions
Monday, November 17 – Hugh, Bishop of Lincoln (d.1200)
Born into a noble family, Hugh entered monastic life at age eight after his mother’s death. His piety and wisdom brought him to England, where King Henry II appointed him prior of a Carthusian monastery as part of the king’s penance for the murder of Thomas Becket. Later, as bishop, Hugh fearlessly resisted royal interference — and managed to keep his head!
More: Wikipedia – Hugh of Lincoln
Tuesday, November 18 – Hilda, Abbess of Whitby (d.680)
A Northumbrian princess raised in exile, Hilda chose the religious life and founded the monastery at Whitby, which became a renowned centre of learning. Known for her wisdom and education, she hosted the Synod of Whitby, where Celtic and Roman Christians resolved the Easter controversy. Hilda accepted the decision gracefully and encouraged unity over pride — a lesson still worth remembering.
More: For All the Saints – p.350
Wednesday, November 19 – Elizabeth, Princess of Hungary (d.1231)
Married young to Louis IV of Thuringia, Elizabeth was widowed by plague at 20 and devoted her life to the poor. She gave away her wealth, built a hospice for the sick, and died at 24.
More: Britannica – Saint Elizabeth of Hungary
Thursday, November 20 – Edmund, King of East Anglia (martyred 869/870)
According to tradition, Edmund was captured by the Danes and executed after refusing to renounce his faith. His courage inspired devotion throughout medieval England.
More: For All the Saints – p.354
In Christ,
Rev. Susan Montague Koyle