PHOTOS: Faith Fills the Mountains as Archbishop Aquila Celebrates Historic Mass in Vail

Archbishop Samuel J. Aquila celebrated Mass at the Gerald Ford Amphitheater in Vail on Sunday, August 10, as the Catholic Parishes of the Valley work towards building two new churches in Eagle County. (Photo by Chris Burtschi)

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.

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 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, with the groundbreaking for the new construction targeted for the summer of 2026 in partnership with Eidos Architects.

Archbishop Aquila celebrated Sunday Mass for the Catholic Parishes of the Valley in Vail.

Several young altar servers assisted Archbishop Aquila at Mass at the Gerald Ford Amphitheater.

Among the many attendees were several young people — a sign of the parish's hopeful future.

Archbishop Aquila celebrated Sunday Mass at the Gerald Ford Amphitheater in Vail.

A priest hears Confession before Mass at the Gerald Ford Amphitheater in Vail.

Hundreds from around Eagle County came together at the Gerald Ford Amphitheater for Mass on Sunday.

Deacon Gelasio Velasco proclaims the Gospel during Mass at the Gerald Ford Amphitheater.

Hundreds from around Eagle County came together at the Gerald Ford Amphitheater for Mass on Sunday.

Deacon Gelasio Velasco proclaims the Gospel during Mass at the Gerald Ford Amphitheater.

Archbishop Aquila delivered a message of hope and challenge during Sunday Mass in Vail.

Deacon Gelasio Velasco assisted at the altar during Mass at the Gerald Ford Amphitheater.

The Mass was a milestone for the venue and community, as they rallied support for two new churches.

An attendee kneels in prayer during Mass at the Gerald Ford Amphitheater.

An attendee kneels in prayer during Mass at the Gerald Ford Amphitheater.

Archbishop Aquila celebrated Sunday Mass at the Gerald Ford Amphitheater in Vail.

As the community gathered in prayer, they also celebrated the progress towards two new churches.

The gathering was characterized by a spirit of hope-filled joy.

Hundreds from around Eagle County came together at the Gerald Ford Amphitheater for Mass on Sunday.

Archbishop Aquila distributes Communion during Mass at the Gerald Ford Amphitheater.

An attendee kneels in prayer during Mass at the Gerald Ford Amphitheater.

A young attendee kneels in prayer during Mass at the Gerald Ford Amphitheater.

Archbishop Aquila greets Mass attendees following the final blessing.

Among the many attendees were a number of children — a sign of the parish's growth and future.

Archbishop Aquila greets and blesses those in attendance for Mass at the Gerald Ford Amphitheater.

(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.