“We thank our patron, Christ the King, for this wonderful gift,” said Fr. Celso G. Magbanua Jr., the parish administrator.
In his message, he said it is “our desire in the parish to live in harmony.”
“Though not perfect and complete, nevertheless, we are on our way toward that goal. With the grace of God, the King who resides in our heart, the prayer of Jesus would be fulfilled in our parish community,” he said.
The procession started after the novena and Mass at 4 p.m.
A reception and raffle draw prepared by the different committees of the Parish Pastoral Council followed the procession.
Parishioners helped decorate the church as well as prepare food and refreshments.
At the south entrance of the church’s parking area, Joe Camacho and his family as well as the Billy family helped decorated the route of the procession.
Camacho said it was their second year to be part of the annual celebration.
“We train our younger members of the family so they will continue to carry on this tradition,” he said.
He said they were also assisted by the Somol family, Sid Seman and Lourdes Rologat.
Outside the church, John Sablan, his son Walter and helper Dominador Naraja installed a retractable banner stand.
Sablan said former Gov. Larry Guerrero, his father-in-law, initiated the setting up of the arc in 1990.
His family assists in the decoration and food preparation each year, he added.
“Hopefully the next generation will continue to do this,” he said.
Magbanuana said the parish is now preparing for the changes in the Roman Missal third edition.
Kristo Rai, he added, remains the biggest parish on island and continues to draw more devotees.
In his message, Parish Pastoral Council president Joe Itibus, said despite the hardship they are experiencing, they will continue to keep their faith and trust in God.
“I truly feel that we have accomplished a lot over the years through your cooperation and generosity and through the grace of God,” he told his fellow parishioners.
He thanked all the individuals, families, communities and businesses who have provided assistance to the parish.
