By Chinwendu Uzoatu
The Feast of Christ the King, a significant celebration in the Catholic Church, marks the proclamation of Christ as the universal King and the culmination of the church’s liturgical year. This solemn occasion holds special significance for Christ the King College (C.K.C.), Onitsha, where both current students and alumni come together in joyful commemoration.
This year, the Old Boys Association, Awka Branch, joined forces with their counterparts worldwide and collaborated with the Old Girls Association of Queen of the Rosary College (Q.R.C.), Onitsha, to celebrate the event in style.
The celebration began with a Pontifical Mass presided over by the Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Paulinus Ezeokafor. In his sermon, Bishop Ezeokafor expressed gratitude to God and emphasized the spiritual significance of the feast. He explained that the celebration serves as a reminder of Christ’s everlasting kingship and His mission of salvation.
“Christ is the universal King, the King of peace, whose kingdom has no end or boundaries,” the bishop said. “The feast of Christ the King is for our salvation. It reflects God’s love and calls us to allow Christ to reign in our hearts and actions.”
Bishop Ezeokafor also encouraged leaders to lead by example and allow the Holy Spirit to guide their actions. “When we let Christ into our lives, He blesses us abundantly,” he added. He expressed appreciation for the contributions of the C.K.C. Old Boys and Q.R.C. Old Girls and urged them to continue emulating Christ in their endeavors.
Dr. Tochukwu Mbachi, President of the C.K.C. Old Boys Association, Awka Branch, described the day as one of immense joy. “The bishop has nourished us with spiritual food. This celebration is an annual ritual for us, and it brings happiness to all old boys,” he said.
Peter Umeadi highlighted the significance of celebrating the feast alongside the universal church, noting that it is a privilege to honor their alma mater’s namesake. Similarly, Maja Umeh expressed pride in the celebration, stating, “The Feast of Christ the King is a great occasion. Our college is dedicated to Him, and this day is always filled with joy.”
Nwegwu Joe, also known as Onowu Ebenebe, noted the tradition of marking the day with a special Mass for both alumni and current students. “We celebrate it with pomp and pageantry,” he said, reflecting the festive spirit of the occasion.
The celebration concluded with plans for an end-of-year luncheon, where alumni and friends of the institution would gather to reflect on the year and continue fostering the bonds of camaraderie and faith.
The Feast of Christ the King remains a unifying and uplifting occasion for the Christ the King College community, a testament to their shared faith and commitment to honoring Christ as King.
