What began as a vision in a booming community is now Christ the King Roman Catholic Church. It stands as a testament to faith and community spirit. Established on June 17 1963 Christ the King Parish emerged from the growing need of Morrell Park residents for a place of worship they could call home.
The story of Christ the King begins with Reverend Arthur J Woods. He was its founding pastor. In September 1963 he established a temporary rectory on Morrell Avenue. Imagine Father Woods celebrating weekday Masses right there.
Before the church was built Sunday Masses were held at St Michael’s Chapel. It was located on the grounds of what is now Aria Torresdale Hospital. The chapel known as the Shrine of the True Cross provided a sacred space for the burgeoning parish.
Groundbreaking for the parish buildings took place on September 13 1964. A year later on the same date the school building opened its doors. Mother Rita Bernadette SSJ served as the school’s first principal.
Christmas 1965 marked a significant milestone. The first Mass in the newly built Christ the King Church was celebrated at midnight. The dedication of the parish buildings followed on May 15 1966. Archbishop John Krol officiated the ceremony.
Father Woods was followed by Reverend Robert Magee Reverend Henry Birkkhead and Reverend James A Callahan. Each contributed to the growth and development of Christ the King. Today the parish boasts 1900 families and 5500 members.
Christ the King continues to be a vibrant center of faith. You can attend Mass on Saturdays at 8:00 am and 5:00 pm. Sunday Masses are at 8:00 am and 10:00 am. Weekday Masses are held at 8:00 am.
Other services include Adoration on Tuesdays from 5:00 pm to 7:30 pm. Confessions are heard on Saturdays from 3:30 pm to 4:30 pm. Christ the King extends a warm welcome to all.
To reach Christ the King from I-95 North or South take the Academy Rd exit. Continue on Academy Rd for about two miles until you reach Morrell Ave. Turn right onto Morrell Ave and proceed to the first traffic light at Chesterfield Rd. Make another right onto Chesterfield Rd. You will find the church on your left.
From Route 1 North or South turn onto Grant Ave. Follow Grant Ave for approximately 1.3 miles to Academy Rd. Turn left onto Academy and continue for about .8 miles to Morrell Ave. Turn right onto Morrell Ave. At the first traffic light turn right again onto Chesterfield Rd. The church will be on your left. Parking is available behind the church.
Christ the King Parish stands as a beacon of faith. It serves the spiritual needs of its community. Its history is a testament to the dedication of its pastors parishioners and the enduring power of faith.