Welcome to Christ the King
Bienvenido a Cristo Rey
Rooted in Faith Since 1959 — Growing in Grace, Honoring Our Past, Embracing Our Future in Christ.
Arraigados en la fe desde 1959: creciendo en la gracia, honrando nuestro pasado, abrazando nuestro futuro en Cristo.
Our Foundations
Christ the King Parish was established under the Diocese of Tucson on September 19, 1959, serving eastern Mesa and nearby underdeveloped areas like Apache Junction. When the Diocese of Phoenix was formed in 1969, the parish became part of it. Christ the King School opened in September 1964, with its first graduating class of 27 pupils in 1967.
Historic Moments
Father John Cullinan, appointed founding pastor on September 21, 1959, initially celebrated Sunday Mass in East Junior High's cafeteria before moving to the Mesa Knights of Columbus Hall in 1960. The first church building, now part of the school, along with four classrooms, was dedicated by Bishop Francis J. Green on January 22, 1961.
Lasting Impact
The current Church and Presentation Hall, designed and constructed under Bishop Green, was dedicated on the Feast of Christ the King, November 22, 1981. Our parish school has grown to offer Pre-K through 8th grade, molding young minds and hearts alike. The St. Peregrine Cancer Shrine was later dedicated on November 22, 2009.
Our Mission
At Christ the King, we are dedicated to building a loving community rooted in faith and ministry. Our goal is to provide a place where everyone feels welcomed and inspired to grow spiritually. Through prayer, service, and fellowship, we strive to create a brighter future together—reaching beyond our parish walls through community outreach and nurturing young minds through our parish school.
Faith in Action
We believe that our faith is best expressed through actions. By engaging in community service, outreach, and the mission of our parish school, we bring hope, education, and support to those in need.
Embracing Diversity
Our church welcomes everyone, celebrating our unique backgrounds and experiences. Together, we cultivate an inclusive environment where mutual respect thrives.
Our Shepherds Through the Years
Get to know the pastors who helped build and guide our faith community. With diverse backgrounds and a shared devotion to service, they shaped a welcoming and vibrant parish rooted in Christ’s love.
What Our Parishioners Say
Get Involved with Our Community
Involúcrate con Nuestra Comunidad
or simply join us for fellowship. Together, we can create a nurturing environment for all.
¡Te invitamos a formar parte de nuestra comunidad en la Iglesia Cristo Rey! Participa en nuestras actividades, colabora en oportunidades de voluntariado
o simplemente únete a nosotros para compartir. Juntos, podemos crear un ambiente acogedor para todos.