Saint Thomas
Aquinas Cathedral

PREPARING FOR RESUMING PUBLIC MASSES
14 MAY 2020
For several weeks now, I have been working with diocesan staff and parish priests in planning for the day when we can resume parish liturgies. We eagerly look forward to that day but also are exercising due diligence in making the necessary preparations. This is essential for safety. We want to make sure the worship environment is as safe as possible following federal, state and health guidelines and recommendations. There is much to consider for there are various aspects that include social distancing in seating, sufficient supplies for necessary cleaning of surface areas, to name a few. All pastors along with parish leaders have been asked to proceed in this planning so we will be ready when the day comes that we can resume gathering together.
The health and safety of all participants in our liturgies are paramount. This is nothing less than a moral obligation for us to follow. It is a matter not only of charity toward neighbor but also justice. Health and life are precious gifts from God which we are bound to safeguard. Parishes will be doing their part in following safety protocols; we will be asking parishioners to do their part in respecting these protocols. Please keep this in your mind and, more importantly, in your heart for this will be a circumstance for us to heed Jesus’ command that we love one another.
More information will be forthcoming from the diocese and your parishes.
Most Rev. Randolph Calvo, Bishop of Reno

PREPARACIÓN PARA REANUDAR LAS MISAS PÚBLICAS 14 MAYO 2020
Durante varias semanas, he estado trabajando con el personal diocesano y los párrocos en la planificación del día en que podamos reanudar las liturgias parroquiales. Esperamos ansiosamente ese día, pero también estamos ejerciendo la diligencia debida para hacer los preparativos necesarios. Esto es esencial para la seguridad. Queremos asegurarnos de que el ambiente de adoración sea lo más seguro posible siguiendo las pautas y recomendaciones federales, estatales y de salud. Hay mucho que considerar, ya que hay varios aspectos que incluyen distanciamiento social en los asientos, suministros suficientes para la limpieza necesaria de las superficies, por nombrar algunos. Se les ha pedido a todos los párrocos junto con los líderes de las parroquias que procedan en esta planificación para que podamos estar listos cuando llegue el día en que podamos reanudar nuestras reuniones.
La salud y la seguridad de todos los participantes en nuestras liturgias son primordiales. Esto es nada menos que una obligación moral que debemos seguir. Se trata no solo de caridad hacia el prójimo sino también de justicia. La salud y la vida son regalos preciosos de Dios que estamos obligados a salvaguardar. Las parroquias estarán haciendo su parte en seguir los protocolos de seguridad; Les pediremos a los feligreses que hagan su parte en el respeto de estos protocolos. Por favor, tenga esto en mente y, lo que es más importante, en su corazón, porque esta será una circunstancia para que prestemos atención al mandato de Jesús de que nos amemos los unos a los otros.
Recibirá más información de la diócesis y de sus parroquias.
REVERENDO RANDOLPH CALVO, OBISPO DE RENO

The Sanctuary of the Cathedral of St. Thomas Aquinas is in itself a sermon on the Blessed Sacrament. The table of the Blessed Sacrament Altar is made of native Nevada aragonite, with hand carved angels. The aragonite came from a mine between Gabbs and Tonopah, Nevada which belonged to John Connolly, brother of then Bishop Connolly. The candlesticks are the work of Dirk Van Erp.

The great mural painting, considered one of the finest works of art of its kind in America, was executed by Edith and Isabel Piczek. The theme is the Adoration of the Lamb of God, our Lord in the Blessed Eucharist.

The Saints of the Old Law, to the left, include Abel, Moses, the Manna, Ruth, Abraham and Isaac, Melchisedech, David, Nathan, Malachias, Anna the Prophetess and John the Baptist.

The Saints of the New Law, include the Holy Family at Bethlehem, the last Supper with our Lord, St. Peter and St. John, with St. Paul in background, St. Augustine, St, Clare of Assisi, St. Charles Borromeo, St. Paschal Baylon, and St. Piux X, urging a modern working family to frequent Communion.

The present stations of the Cross were created by Bill Lutz in 1993. The main entrance doors are covered with copper, mined in Nevada. They were designed and embossed by Gordon Newby.

There are 8 stained glass windows to reflect upon:  The Holy Family, Our Lady of the Snows, Mother Seton, Mother Cabrini, Friar Garces, Father Gallagher, Bishop Manogue, Bishop Carroll.  For detail descriptions see 'About Us' under Cathedral.

The Cathedral Memorial Wall is located in the Peace Garden behind the statue of Mary.  Plaques are available for $100 and are a lovely gift of rememberance for families or friends who have lost a loved one.  Please print and complete the order form below and submit to the Parish Office.