Catholics in Poland celebrate Christ the King with processions in eight cities and Eucharistic liturgies.
Festive Processions Across Poland
Today, Catholics worldwide observe the Solemnity of Christ the King, marking the conclusion of the liturgical year. This significant feast, established in 1925 by Pope Pius XI, is commemorated with Eucharistic celebrations and acts of devotion, including the recitation of the Litany to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. In Poland, processions honoring Jesus Christ the King will take place in Kraków, Warsaw, Szczecin, Olsztyn, Katowice, Gdańsk, Przemyśl, and Wrocław, preceded by Masses led by local bishops.
A Historic Feast with Modern Relevance
Initially celebrated in late October, the Second Vatican Council moved this feast to the final Sunday of the liturgical calendar. This adjustment underscores the belief that Christ is the Alpha and Omega, central to all creation. Notably, this year marks the eighth anniversary of the Polish Episcopate’s Jubilee Act of Acceptance of Jesus Christ as King and Lord, proclaimed at the Sanctuary of Divine Mercy in Łagiewniki in 2016.
City-Specific Celebrations
Each city has planned unique liturgical and procession routes. For instance, Kraków’s celebrations include a procession from the Basilica of Divine Mercy to St. John Paul II Sanctuary. In Warsaw, processions connect key cathedrals, while in other cities, gatherings focus on central landmarks.
This feast is a vibrant demonstration of faith, uniting believers in public expressions of devotion and gratitude.