May 2002

Working Parish Snapshot (With Liturgy and Justice for All)

Name: Christ the King

Location: Southeast San Diego in a racially-mixed, lower-income area.

History: Founded in 1938 by Jesuit priests as a storefront church for black Catholics, it became an exceptionally popular parish in the 1960s because it immediately incorporated many of the changes called for by Vatican II. Folk masses, lay involvement in decision-making, and outreach to the community were well established here, while many other parishes were still agonizing over turning the altar around. Parishioners were a major force in the 1970s in launching the San Diego Organizing Project, an ecumenical community action group. They also helped establish a San Diego Catholic Worker house. And they sent a delegation to the original Call to Action meeting in Detroit in 1976.

Membership: Today the parish has about 1,000 families, majority Hispanic but with a substantial number of white and black parishioners. Members are of all ages, and family forms, many coming from considerable distance to attend mass.

Masses: 5:30 p.m. (Saturday), 7, 8:30, 11 and 1 (Sunday). The 8:30 is the most lively with a black choir providing inspiration. The 11 and 1 are in Spanish. There is a strong sense of fellowship at all Masses as people gather around the altar; laypersons occasionally "respond" formally to the Scripture readings; and newcomers are actively welcomed. The kiss of peace is given at the beginning of masses to establish a sense of forgiveness and peace before the congregation takes part in the sacred mysteries.

Activities: Active parish council and peace and justice committee, many formal groups and committees -- for men, gays and lesbians, African-Americans, Hispanics.; many ministries -- on centering prayer, bible study, bereavement, and service to sick and infirm, etc.

Secret of Success: Christ the King has retained a lively spirit over many years, through a succession of pastors, and a host of internal challenges, because of core parishioners who have supported the Vatican II approach and also because the Jesuits have sent priests who support the original energy and dedication to an interracial, inclusive, active community.

Quote: "This place is a jewel in the church's treasure chest. It's about the only place I'd care to drive nine miles to go to church on Sunday. It gives the people a sense of self-reliance, a sense that we are the church and it's prevailed since we came here in the 1960s. We'll soon have a change of pastors, but no matter who comes the spirit here will not be destroyed." Edward and Janet Mansfield, veteran parishioners. Janet is a leader of Call To Action San Diego County.

Contact: Web: www.acusd.edu/theo/sdrel/pw/ cking.html Phone: 619-231-8906

Know a parish that combines good liturgy with work for social justice? Drop us a line for our next edition. Editor: bill@cta-usa.org