LAS VEGAS (Dec. 31, 2022) - The Diocese of Las Vegas has issued the following statement regarding the death of Pope Benedict XVI: Bishop George Leo Thomas, Ph.D., and his Auxiliary Bishop Gregory W. Gordon, together with the people of the Diocese of Las Vegas offer prayers and commendations for the former Pontiff. Born Joseph Ratzinger, he was the 265th Successor of St. Peter and Pope of the Roman Catholic Church; he served as the head of the Church from 2005 until his resignation in 2013. During his papacy, Pope Benedict XVI left an esteemed legacy of leadership as a priest, bishop, scholar, and theological advisor to the Second Vatican Council. For a detailed biography click here. “The death of Benedict XVI is a tremendous loss for the Church and our world,” said Bishop Thomas. “May God reward him for his years of fidelity and selfless service to the Church.” Pope Benedict’s body will lie in state in the Vatican’s Basilica of Saint Peter beginning on 2 January 2023, to allow the faithful to offer their prayers and to pay their respects. Pope Francis will preside over the funeral service which will be held at 9:30 a.m. (12:30 a.m. PST) on Thursday, 5 January, in Saint Peter’s Square. The Bishop of Las Vegas will celebrate Mass at 9:00 a.m. on January 5, 2023 at Guardian Angel Cathedral located at 336 Cathedral Way. The Diocese of Las Vegas asks that people of all faiths join us in praying for the repose of the soul of Pope Benedict, that God may receive him into His heavenly home.