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We are a vibrant faith community inviting every person to an encounter with Jesus Christ and experience his call to friendship and communion.

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Annual Diocesan Appeal

Through the ADA we are able to prepare disciples for the domestic church, welcome people into communion, cultivate a culture of servant leadership and draw young people into deeper communion.

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Catholic Schools

There are millions of reasons why a Catholic education is the best education around. Witness the difference!

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Why Mass?

Is Mass just for those who have it all together? Hardly! Our new video series explores faith in Jesus and the value of Sunday Mass for our real lives, struggles and all.

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God came knocking three times

Three times in his life, Father Luis Cabrera thought he might be called by God to be a priest. The first two times, he chose a different path. With a successful career (he worked at the United Nations) and married, he pushed the calling aside. But after his wife died, he reassessed where God wanted him to be. Now a priest, Father Luis shares his life journey that ultimately led hm to serving God's people.

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News & Blog

Iowa bishops issue statement on abortion law decision

June 28, 2024

A statement from the Catholic bishops of Iowa regarding the Iowa Supreme Court decision to uphold the state’s 6-week abortion ban.

Firing Up Fathers

June 19, 2024

We need and desire priests who will bring us to Jesus. We celebrate the two newly ordained - Fathers Luis Cabrera and Mike Mahoney - and pray that God sends us more spiritual fathers.

Schweizer family to give keynote at Bishop's Celebration

June 19, 2024

Get your tickets now for the annual Bishop's Celebration of Catholic Schools slated for Aug. 24. Join us as we celebrate top-notch educators and hear from three generations of the Schweizer family - including Olympian Karissa Schweizer - on how Catholic education was instrumental to their success.

Diocesan Events

Biking for Babies, Renewing the Culture of Life

July 10, 2024 6:00 PM
Location: St. Francis of Assisi, West Des Moines, IA

10 missionaries with Biking for Babies will be stopping in Des Moines along their 600 mile bike ride from the Twin Cities to St. Louis. A 6:00 pm Mass will be conducted by Bishop Joensen, followed by a talk from the missionaries about their experiences and more information on Biking for Babies. Drinks and deserts will be provided.

Bishop's Celebration of Catholic Schools

August 24, 2024 4:30 PM
Location: St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, West Des Moines, IA

The Bishop's Celebration of Catholic Schools is an annual event that unites the entire Diocese of Des Moines community in celebration of the life-changing impact our faith-centered education has provided for more than 150 years. Each year during the event, the diocese recognizes special educators, administrators, and volunteers for their impact on our Catholic schools.

Ministries & Services

Service Opportunities

Looking for a place to share your time and talent in service to others? There are several ways to get involved within Des Moines and our surrounding communities.

Giving

The Diocese of Des Moines provides many opportunities for people to share their gifts. Your generosity and support impact children and families of our community.

Catholic Social Teaching

In Catholic Social Teaching, the Church outlines seven specific ways we can put our faith into action by loving one another.