The plans to build the cathedral were envisioned in 1937 by David O'Leary, the first South African born Catholic Bishop of Johannesburg.

Reconstituted stone panels with open lattice patterns form the framework for the geometric stained glass windows, and as with historic Cathedral design, the structure is divided into regular bays.

The building finishes were left unpainted to reduce future maintenance liability and the flooring chosen was durable marble, terrazzo, mosaic and linoleum.

Stained glass windows transform the sunshine outside into patterns of blue, red, orange, yellow and green within the nave of the Cathedral.

The specification of the new organ of the Cathedral of Christ the King, has been drawn up by the present writer in consultation with the representatives of the firm of Cooper, Gill and Tomkins, Johannesburg, who have been awarded the contract to build the instrument.

[citation needed] A memorial service for the late Pope John Paul II was held at the Cathedral of Christ the King on Wednesday 6 April 2005.

The sermon was delivered by Buti Tlhagale, bishop of the Johannesburg Diocese, who hailed the Pope for his recognition of African cultures.

[citation needed] About 4,500 people attended the service celebrated by Buti Tlhagale, archbishop of Johannesburg in thanksgiving for the new diocesan chancery building which was blessed the same day, in September 2012.