On Sunday September 22, 2002 over 400 hundred retreatants gathered to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Christ the King Retreat Center in Buffalo, MN.

Fr. Jim Deegan, OMI, began the prayer service by recognizing and introducing Fr. Boni Wittenbrink, OMI, the first director of King's House and Fr. Maynard Kegler, OMI, who had served as director for 17 years. Also recognized was Joyce Paumen who recently retired after 30 year of service. Sr. Marie Barth, PBVM, and Sr. Margie Klein, SSND, represented the many religious women who have served at King's House.

 Archbishop Harry Flynn presided at the outdoor prayer service and expressed his appreciation to the Oblates for their 50 years of preaching ministry in Buffalo. Since the weather was "Minnesota Crisp" he began he reflections by saying this is the "shortest outdoor reflection you are ever going to hear". There was applause.

 Fr. Dave Kalert, OMI expressed his appreciation to everyone who has been a part of the King's House story. He spoke of the Oblate commitment to the preaching ministry and specifically thanked all of the Oblates who have served at King's House.

 Christ the King Retreat Center currently welcomes over 7000 retreatants a year. The dietary department served over 42,000 meals this past year. The retreat calendar is continually filled 18 months in advance. As Fr. Kalert stated, "we have much to be grateful for".