PHOTOS: Faith Fills the Mountains as Archbishop Aquila Celebrates Historic Mass in Vail
- Denver Catholic Staff
- Aug 11
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 13
Morning light spilled across the peaks of the Gore Range as Catholics from throughout Eagle County streamed into the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater on Aug. 10, filling the open-air venue with prayer and song. For the first time in the amphitheater’s history, the Eucharist was celebrated there, led by Archbishop Samuel J. Aquila.
The unique liturgy drew together parishioners from the Parishes of the Valley — St. Clare of Assisi in Edwards, St. Mary in Eagle and St. Patrick in Minturn — forming one visible expression of unity in faith.
The Mass was more than a milestone for the venue. It was also a moment to rally support for the region’s ambitious capital campaign to build two new churches that will serve the growing Catholic population in the Eagle River Valley.
"The Mass was an absolutely beautiful event. We were so blessed to have Archbishop come up and preside over the Mass, and to have all the parish priests there! We feel very blessed," said Janet Burmeister, one of the campaign's co-chairs alongside her husband, Steve, and Alba and Reynaldo Padilla.
"We're very proud," added Steve. "Janet and I, Alba and Reynaldo, took it as a challenge, and we're full of gratitude to everybody who gave some of their hard-earned money for this project."
To date, the campaign has raised more than $20 million to replace the temporary worship space at St. Clare and build a larger home for St. Mary. This impressive achievement — the largest parish-based campaign in archdiocesan history — is a testament to the dedication and generosity of the community, reflecting a shared vision for a brighter future. As the next chapter unfolds, the aim is to raise an additional $3 million.
"We're hopeful we'll have the next phase done by the end of the year, or even by the time the aspen leaves fall in early October," Steve said.
The campaign organizers, in partnership with Eidos Architects, are looking to spring and summer 2026 for the groundbreakings of the two new church buildings.
"Both of us are very excited and grateful to the community that they've stepped forward to support this historic project," Janet shared. "We're excited to see it get started!"
(Photos by Chris Burtschi)
Adding to the momentum of this endeavor, Archbishop Aquila has pledged a significant $1 million contribution and land in Gypsum for the future St. Mary. These gestures not only highlight his personal commitment but also underscore the Archdiocese of Denver’s dedication to supporting this vibrant mountain community as it grows and flourishes.
“We are deeply grateful to Archbishop Aquila for his leadership, generosity and presence with us in this important moment,” said Father Jose Maria Quera, pastor of the Parishes of the Valley. “This celebration of the Eucharist in the heart of Vail is a sign of God’s providence and the deep faith of our community. We thank all those — both near and far — who have given so generously to help us build a lasting spiritual home in the mountains.”
As the final blessing was given, the crowd lingered — greeting friends, taking in the mountain air and carrying the joy of the morning back into the valleys and towns below. The day’s liturgy was, for many, a reminder that even in the high country, the Church is rooted deeply in the hearts of her people.
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For more information about the capital campaign, visit www.vailvalleychurchfund.org.
