On Sunday, November 24, 2024, members of Saint Paul Catholic Church in Lekki gathered to celebrate the Feast of Christ the King, parading from their church to the streets of Ikota Villa Estate in a vibrant display of faith. The event marked the culmination of the liturgical year for Catholics, filled with colorful displays of devotion and unity.
Carrying banners and crosses emblazoned with the image of Christ, participants dressed in white, red, and purple robes marched through the estate, singing hymns of praise. The procession was a vivid celebration of Jesus Christ as the ‘King of Kings’ and the ‘Lord of Lords.’ After completing their march through Ikota Villa Estate, the faithful made their way back to the church, continuing their celebration.
Speaking with the Podium News Correspondent, Mr. Alex John, a member of Saint Paul Catholic Church, shared the significance of the day: “We are celebrating the Feast of Christ the King, which symbolizes the kingship of Jesus Christ, the source of our inspiration. Today, we want the world to know that He is the one we serve. His reign is eternal, and His power is not of this world. He is the King who has come to bring peace, love, and salvation to mankind.”
When asked about the frequency of the celebration, Mrs. Mary Okafor explained, “The Feast of Christ the King is celebrated once a year, typically at the end of November. It marks the conclusion of the prayer year for us and the end of the liturgical ‘Ordinary Time.’ This celebration prepares us for the season of Advent, a time when we await and prepare for the birth of Jesus Christ. From next Sunday, we will enter Advent Sunday, the beginning of the countdown to Christmas.”
The Feast of Christ the King is celebrated worldwide and highlights Jesus Christ’s eternal reign. Instituted in 1925 by Pope Pius XI, it was initially observed on the last Sunday of October to counter the rise of secularism and atheism. Over time, many Christian denominations have adopted the feast to affirm Christ’s authority.
In light of modern secular challenges, the feast serves as a reminder of Christ’s divine kingship and enduring message of faith. Mr. Paul Stephen, another member, elaborated, “In a world where earthly authorities come and go, it is important to remember that Christ reigns forever. His reign is eternal, unlike the temporary power of political leaders. We celebrate today to honor Christ’s universal and everlasting rule.”
The Feast of Christ the King reminds Christians that, despite the shifting tides of power and politics, Christ’s reign endures. It encourages reflection on the values of a good ruler—order, unity, truth, and protection—and recognizes Jesus as the ultimate ruler, fulfilling these virtues perfectly.
Saint Paul Catholic Church’s colorful procession was not only a celebration of Christ’s kingship but also a bold affirmation of faith in a world increasingly distant from religious values. As they marched from their church through Ikota Villa Estate and back, the faithful sent a powerful message: “Christ is the King, and we serve Him with love and devotion.”
