The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.” -- St. Augustine

Friday, October 2, 2009

Shrine of the Most Holy Redeemer - Las Vegas, Nevada

(Photo provided)
Destination: Located across from the Luxor Hotel and next to the Tropicana in the heart of Las Vegas, Nev., the Shrine of the Most Holy Redeemer represents quiet respite from the bustling city.
Mass is offered Saturdays at 4 p.m.; Sundays at 8 a.m., 10 a.m., and noon; weekdays 11:30 a.m.
Why to go: In addition to being the largest Catholic church in Nevada — it seats more than 2,000 — the Shrine of the Most Holy Redeemer is also home to Our Lady of Guadalupe Chapel.
This chapel was commissioned by the former Bishop of the Diocese of Reno-Las Vegas, Most Rev. Daniel F. Walsh, to celebrate the 500th anniversary of the evangelization of the Americas. The chapel is a gift of the E. L. Wiegand Foundation.
The altar, lectern, sanctuary lamp, crucifix, and tabernacle are original contemporary works in bronze.
The chapel has three major works of art: an oil painting of Our Lady of Guadalupe which originated in Mexico in the late 17th century; a 4-foot, hand carved statue of St. Joseph and the child Jesus that is approximately 200 years old; and a contemporary mural depicting all of the people of Canada, United States, Mexico, Central and South America who played a significant role in the evangelization of the Americas.
Outside the shrine, there is a statue grouping, “Christ with the Children” (left) and, at the entrance, a bronze statue of Christ (above).
On the inside walls, there is striking three-
dimensional art depicting the annunciation, nativity and baptism of the Lord, as well as the wedding at Cana, washing of feet, and the crucifixion.
Amenities: There is a gift shop that is open Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m, Saturday, noon-5:30 p.m., and Sunday 7 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
Access: The church is fairly easy to find, and walking distance from several Las Vegas tourist sites.
(Grand) Kid friendly: Children are certainly welcome at the shrine.
Info: Address: Shrine of the Most Holy Redeemer, 55 E. Reno Ave., Las Vegas, NV 89119. Phone: 702/891-8600. Web: www.lasvegas-diocese.org/parishes_shrine_holy.html
- Compiled by Sharon Boehlefeld
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