As the Stanley Cup Finals bring excitement across the hockey world, Archbishop George Leo Thomas, Ph.D., of the Archdiocese of Las Vegas and Bishop Luis Rafael Zarama of the Diocese of Raleigh join in the friendly spirit of competition with a good-natured wager.
In support of the Vegas Golden Knights, Archbishop Thomas has offered the same beloved Las Vegas prize as three years ago: two Mafioso steak packages from the legendary Golden Steer Steakhouse, one of the city’s most iconic dining institutions.
Supporting the Carolina Hurricanes, Bishop Luis Rafael Zarama has put North Carolina pride on the line, wagering the smoky, slow-cooked, authentic Carolina barbecue and a pecan pie sweet enough to make even a rival fan reconsider their loyalties.
“Las Vegas never folds under pressure,” Archbishop Thomas added. “And when it comes to the Golden Knights, we are all in. In Las Vegas, we know a little something not just about good steaks, and about high stakes!” The Archbishop continued, “We are once again wagering two Mafioso steak packages from the Golden Steer. Of course, we are praying they remain right here in Las Vegas, because the only thing better than a good steak is a Golden Knights victory.”
Bishop Zarama of Raleigh shared, “While my brother bishop is much more familiar with wagering than I am, it is my pleasure to share in this way the blessings of our respective dioceses as we root for our home teams. Good luck, God bless and Go Canes!”
The friendly wager celebrates the enthusiasm of both hockey communities, and the joy that sports can bring to families, fans, and neighbors.
May the best team win.

