Mount Cristo Rey, located in Sunland Park, New Mexico, stands as a testament to faith and community, offering a unique blend of history, spirituality, and cultural significance. This iconic site is crowned with a 29-foot limestone statue of Jesus Christ, a project envisioned by Monsignor Lourdes F. Costa in 1933. The first cross, a wooden one, was erected in 1934, followed by an iron cross shortly after. It was sculptor Urbici Soler who, with dedication and artistry, transformed this vision into reality by 1939.
Since its dedication on October 29, 1939, Mount Cristo Rey has been a pilgrimage site for thousands. Each year, particularly on the last Sunday of October, devout pilgrims ascend the 4.4-mile round-trip trail, reflecting on the Stations of the Cross and seeking spiritual renewal. From its summit, visitors are treated to breathtaking views across New Mexico, Texas, and Chihuahua, Mexico, underscoring the mountain’s geographical and cultural significance.
Mount Cristo Rey has not only been a spiritual beacon but also a focal point in the broader historical context of border issues. Recently, plans by U.S. Customs and Border Protection to construct a border barrier have sparked debates and opposition, highlighting the mountain’s ongoing role as a symbol of faith crossing borders. Despite these challenges, the Mount Cristo Rey Restoration Committee works tirelessly to preserve this cherished site, ensuring it remains a place of worship and community for future generations.
