Religion

Religion in Las Vegas

Las Vegas may be famous for entertainment and the Strip, but it’s also home to a thriving and diverse religious community. Newcomers are often surprised to discover that the Valley has more places of worship than casinos, reflecting the city’s long history of faith alongside its reputation for leisure.

A Brief History of Faith in Las Vegas

Religion has been a part of Las Vegas since its earliest days. In 1855, Mormon settlers established a mission fort in the valley, marking the beginnings of organized faith in the area. By the early 1900s, Las Vegas had its first churches, including First Methodist, Christ Church Episcopal, and the first Catholic parish in 1908. Today, that same spirit of diversity continues, with congregations representing nearly every major faith tradition.

Diversity of Faiths

Las Vegas supports a wide variety of denominations and beliefs, including:

  • Roman Catholic

  • Protestant (Baptist, Methodist, Lutheran, Pentecostal, Full Gospel, etc.)

  • The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormon)

  • Jewish synagogues and community centers

  • Muslim mosques and Islamic centers

  • Hindu and Buddhist temples

  • Religious Science and interfaith organizations

  • Scientology and other smaller denominations

Notable Communities & Places of Worship

  • Roman Catholic Diocese of Las Vegas – Oversees parishes and schools throughout Clark County. Website: dioceseoflasvegas.org

  • LDS (Mormon) Community – Several stakes and wards throughout the Valley, along with the Las Vegas Nevada Temple.

  • Jewish Community – Includes Temple Beth Sholom, the city’s oldest synagogue, and several other active temples and community centers.

  • Christian Denominations – From large Baptist congregations to smaller neighborhood churches, Las Vegas offers dozens of choices.

  • Other Faiths – The city is also home to mosques, Hindu temples, and interfaith centers, reflecting its growing cultural diversity.

Choosing a Place of Worship

Finding the right spiritual home is a personal decision. Consider:

  • Proximity – Many families look for congregations close to their neighborhoods.

  • Congregation Size – Some prefer large, active communities; others seek smaller, more intimate groups.

  • Additional Services – Many religious organizations in Las Vegas also provide schools, day care, senior housing, bookstores, and community outreach programs.

Resources to Help You Connect

✨ Las Vegas is more than “Sin City.” Its rich variety of faith communities ensures that newcomers from all backgrounds can find a welcoming place of worship and community.