Archbishop Thomas joins other new Archbishops for pallium Mass with Pope Francis

by Communications Office

LAS VEGAS (June 29, 2023) — On June 29, 2023, Pope Francis welcomed 32 new Archbishops from 19 countries for a special Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican for the Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul, including Archbishop George Leo Thomas, Ph.D., Archbishop of Las Vegas. During this special Mass, the pallium was blessed by Pope Francis and presented to the new Archbishops after Mass. The special Mass, attended by bishops, clergy, and faithful from around the world, marked a significant milestone in the journey of Archbishop Thomas and the elevation of the Diocese of Las Vegas to the status of a Metropolitan Archdiocese.

The pallium is a narrow, scarf-like band of white woolen cloth adorned with six black crosses. It holds great symbolic importance within the Catholic Church, representing the authority and unity of metropolitan archbishops with the Holy See. The conferral of the pallium by the Pope emphasizes the archbishop's connection to the local Archdiocese and the Universal Church.

During Pope Francis' Homily, he mentioned the new Archbishops, saying, "Today, a number of our brother Archbishops receive the pallium, a sign of communion with the Church of Rome. To them, I would say: Be apostles like Peter and Paul. Be disciples in following and apostles in preaching. Bring the beauty of the Gospel everywhere, together with all the People of God."

Following the special Papal Mass, pilgrims from Las Vegas had a reception at the Pontifical North American College in Rome, where seminarians from North America studying for the priesthood in Rome reside.

"I am deeply honored and humbled to receive the Pallium, recognizing the significance of this moment for the Archdiocese of Las Vegas," commented Archbishop Thomas. "While I am the one receiving this recognition with the Pallium, I am acutely aware that it is a testament to the tireless work and dedication of our priests, deacons, and the countless lay men and women who contribute to our faith community each day. Their unwavering commitment and hard work have played an integral role in the growth and transformation of our Archdiocese. It is their collective efforts that have allowed us to become an Archdiocese, and I am profoundly grateful for their faith and dedication. This recognition truly belongs to the entire faith community of Las Vegas, and it is a moment of pride and joy for all of us."

On October 2, 2023, a local celebration will take place at the Shrine of the Most Holy Redeemer with the Apostolic Nuncio, Archbishop Christophe Pierre. More details regarding this celebration will be announced at a future date. News updates and other materials regarding Las Vegas becoming an Archdiocese and Archbishop Thomas receiving the pallium will be posted on dioceseoflasvegas.org/archdiocese.