Thousands make 2025 Mount Cristo Rey pilgrimage

UPDATE: Thousands braved the colder temperatures for the annual Mount Cristo Rey Pilgrimage this morning.

The hike up the mountain is in celebration of the Feast of Christ the King.

"This is when a lot of people come up to give thanks, to pray, to ask for favors, and they make the pilgrimage since early this morning," said Ruben Escandon, Jr., Mount Cristo Rey Restoration Committee leader.

Bishop Peter Baldacchino of the Las Cruces Catholic Diocese celebrated mass at the summit, while other clergy were available throughout the hike to provide confession and reconciliation. 

Many who climb do so to give thanks, pray, and ask for blessings, according to the members of the Mount Cristo Rey Restoration Committee who work year round to maintain the trail and monument and organize the annual event.

"Part of the faith, it's a tradition here in this community to to make the climb, to make the pilgrimage to Cristo Rey. Like I said, a lot of people come up, take advantage, um, of thanking God for favors that have been granted," said Melissa Kern who made the climb this year.

 The event is free, but the committee does accept donations to help in the maintenance and restoration efforts of the monument. 

SUNLAND PARK, New Mexico (KVIA) -- Thousands of Borderland residents are expected to take part in the annual Mount Cristo Rey pilgrimage Saturday, a longstanding tradition that draws worshippers, families and visitors from across the region.

Gates open at 7 a.m., marking the start of the pilgrimage up the steep, winding path to the 29-foot statue of Christ that overlooks the borderland.

The Mount Cristo Rey Restoration Committee is urging attendees to wear sturdy shoes, dress in layers and bring plenty of water.

Volunteers and local law enforcement will be stationed along the route to help manage traffic and assist walkers as they make their way to the summit.

The event, typically held near Thanksgiving, serves as a time of reflection, prayer and community for many who attend.

It has been a fixture in the region for decades, becoming one of the area’s most recognizable faith traditions.