Confirmation Change

Bishop announces a major change in the sacramental life of the diocesan community.

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Summertime Service

Looking for something to do this summer? Check out all the family volunteer opportunities at Catholic Charities.

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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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Confirmation Changes!

Bishop William Joensen announced that, after much prayer, study, and consultation, the Diocese of Des Moines will move the celebration of the sacrament of Confirmation from 10th grade to 6th grade in a 3-year process. In addition, the sacramental preparation process will be shortened to one year and be more family focused.

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Quick Links

Giving The Catholic Mirror Newsletter 2026 Annual Diocesan Appeal Consecration to the Sacred Heart

News & Blog

Local 'Sacred Heart' parishes celebrate the Consecration

June 2, 2026

Local Diocese of Des Moines parishes will join in celebration with the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB)’s Consecration of the United States to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, which will take place on June 11, 2026. Particularly, parishes with "Sacred Heart" as their namesake will hold special celebrations to commemorate the consecration.

Sister Rini Simethy is reelected as general counsellor of LMSH

June 2, 2026

Sister Rini Simethy was newly reelected to a six-year term as general counsellor of the Little Missionaries of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (LMSH).

Meet St. Anthony Catholic School’s New Administrators for the 2026-2027 School Year

May 26, 2026

St. Anthony Catholic School is pleased to announce the appointment of Joseph Nelson as its new principal and Taylor Reed as its new assistant principal for the upcoming school year.

Diocesan Events

Virtual Watch Party: Catholic Mental Health Ministry Conference

June 5, 2026 9:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Location: Catholic Pastoral Center, 601 Grand Ave., Des Moines, Iowa 50309

Join us for a virtual watch party and learn from a national workshop how to begin or strengthen a Mental Health Ministry in your parish.

The Des Moines Meeting

June 6, 2026 11:00 AM - 08:00 PM
Location: Catholic Pastoral Center, 601 Grand Ave., Des Moines, Iowa 50309

The Des Moines Meeting explores a range of what's truly good and beautiful where we can encounter God.

Ministries & Services

Deaf & Disability Ministry

The Office for Disability Ministry serves as a resource providing parishes, schools, individuals and families with tools to make the Catholic faith accessible to all.

Marriage & Family Life

Sharing in Christ's vision, the Diocese of Des Moines Marriage and Family Life Department seeks to work with parishes and couples, walking with all families in all their stages of life.

Mental Health Ministry

Mental Health Ministry is the process of spiritual accompaniment with others as they experience God's presence, love, and healing.

Youth Ministry

The Diocesan Office of Youth Ministry partners with parishes and families to foster these communities and experiences as our Diocesan youth traverse the difficult world of being a teen.