New Archdiocesan Documentary Brings Nevada’s Catholic History to Life

LAS VEGAS (Oct. 27, 2025) — The Archdiocese of Las Vegas has released a groundbreaking new documentary, A Journey of Hope: The Story of the Catholic Church in Southern Nevada, chronicling the Church’s 30-year history as a diocese and the 250-year legacy of faith first brought to Nevada by early missionaries.

Premiering online October 25, the film offers a sweeping look at how the Catholic faith has taken root in one of the most unexpected places — the Mojave Desert — and grown into a vibrant local Church serving more than 750,000 Catholics today.

What sets this film apart is its innovative storytelling approach, using artificial intelligence to recreate historical moments where no video footage exists. These AI-enhanced visualizations help bring the early frontier Church to life, making visible the stories that shaped Nevada’s Catholic identity.

“So much of our Catholic history in Nevada predates moments captured on video,” said Montie Chavez, Director of Communications and scriptwriter for the project. “AI allowed us to create moments, such as missionary encounters and early city of Las Vegas beginnings, in a way that honors the past while helping modern audiences better connect with it.”

The documentary includes interviews with Archbishop Thomas, Bishop Gordon, longtime parishioners, and community leaders who witnessed the Church’s growth firsthand — including the pivotal moment in 2023 when Pope Francis elevated Las Vegas to the status of an Archdiocese.

Produced by the Archdiocesan Communications Office, the project was led by filmmaker Adrian Leon and Director of Faith Formation, Connie Clough. Together, the team curated parish archives, historic photos, and testimonies to weave a narrative that honors the sacrifices, perseverance, and faith that continue to define the Church in Southern Nevada.

The English and Spanish versions of the documentary can be viewed beginning Saturday, October 25 at 2:00 p.m. on the Archdiocese of Las Vegas YouTube channel and can be viewed below.