Christ the King Feast celebrated with Eucharistic Procession in Kolkata

Kolkata, November 25, 2025: The Archdiocese of Calcutta marked the feast of Christ the King with its annual Corpus Christi Eucharistic Procession, drawing more than ten thousand faithful in a powerful public testament of Catholic faith. The long-standing tradition, observed with deep reverence and devotion, remains one of the most significant events in the Archdiocese’s Liturgical calendar.

The procession began after noon from the St. Xavier’s College Grounds, which had been meticulously prepared for the occasion. The altar for the exposition of the Blessed Sacrament was beautifully decorated with flowers, candles, and symbolic liturgical elements. This year’s theme, “Anchored in Christ. Renewed in Hope”, was prominently displayed across the backdrop, setting the tone for the solemn gathering.

In a notable feature introduced this year, Archbishop Elias Frank of Calcutta invited Sr. Mary Joseph MC, Mother General of the Missionaries of Charity, to deliver a reflection to the congregation. Drawing from a personal experience, Sr. Joseph offered a moving insight into serving Christ through service to the poor and the needy, recognising them as the very ‘Body of Christ’. Her sharing deeply resonated with those present.

Following this reflection, the Archbishop received the monstrance containing the Blessed Sacrament from the Vicar General. The solemn procession then set out with great care and devotion. Young men in dark suits held aloft the ceremonial canopy shielding the Blessed Sacrament, while altar servers walked ahead, incensing reverently with a thurible. Children dressed in spotless white scattered rose petals along the path, adding a tender and symbolic gesture of love and veneration.

Parishes and institutions from across the Archdiocese contributed their own distinctive banners and symbols, creating a vibrant and diverse display of Catholic identity. The Kolkata Police, alongside trained procession volunteers, ensured smooth traffic management so the procession could proceed without disruption along its designated route.

Upon returning to St. Xavier’s grounds, the faithful joined in the Act of Consecration to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, after which the Archbishop imparted Benediction, bringing the ceremony to a prayerful close.

The event stood as a remarkable public expression of the Catholic community’s living faith in Kolkata, reaffirming the central role of the Eucharist in the spiritual life of believers. It also showcased the unity, devotion, and deep reverence that characterise the city’s Catholic community.

In addition to the main procession, a second Eucharistic procession—held specially for the Jubilee Year—took place almost simultaneously for the Howrah-Hooghly Deanery. Beginning at Sacred Heart Church, Chandannagar, it concluded with Holy Mass and Benediction at St. Joseph’s Convent, Chandannagar.

By Sr. Sofia Thomas FSP

Archdiocesan Social Communications Commission,

Calcutta Archdiocese

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