Christ the King Catholic Church,located at 2303 John R. Lynch Street, is a West Jackson landmark and will turn 70 years old on October 13, 2015. In observance of this milestone the members of Christ the King Catholic Church will celebrate its rich culture heritage, Saturday June, 27, from 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm with “A Taste of Christ the King Food Festival”.

Since its inception Christ the King’s celebrations of faith have centered around food. Legend has it that this passion for food and fellowship was led by one the church’s most adored families, the Sampson’s. The late, Mr. and Mrs. L. W. Sampson, moved from Louisiana in the 1930’s, both cradle Catholics and members of Holy Ghost Catholic Church. The Sampson’s moved west and became founding members of Christ the King-a true blessing for this church community. Mr. Sampson was the head chef at the Robert E. Lee Hotel, where he was known for its mouth- watering classic southern cuisine with an infusion Louisiana/French influence such as gumbo.

The legendary chef, bestowed upon Christ the King the tradition of sharing meals together, parish wide dinners, coffee, cookies and donuts after mass were the norm. Earning Christ the King, the nickname of being the eatingiest parish in the whole diocese. In addition to Mr. Sampson, the famed Big John Mora, patriarch of the Lee family and founder of “Big Apple Inn,” a Farish Street institution introduced his tamales, smoked sausage sandwiches and other Mexican influenced dishes to the church family. Over the years the church has become a melting pot and a smorgasbord board of ethnic food experiences.

For $5.00 admission, attendees can taste an array of ethnic foods from African cuisine to Mississippi soul food.

Christ the King Catholic Church is the third oldest Catholic Church in the metropolitan area and the second oldest Catholic Church built for the African American population. Christ the King Catholic Church is a historical institution in the West Jackson community. The church served the community with zealous in the areas of Christian education, civil rights and justice, community outreach, promoting art and culture, and social service.

Monthly program will be observed focusing on the various ministries of the church. For more information contact: Theresa King at 601-519-2909, email:teekassociates@yahoo.com or John Robinson 601-672-6203 email:,jrobinson61@hotmail.com