Get the essentials for Lent

Lean into Lent with these family-friendly tools from Fish Fry listings to reconciliation services and more.

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CRS Rice Bowl Grant Applications Open

Organizations that focus on alleviating hunger and poverty are invited to apply for a 2026 CRS Rice Bowl grant.

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Winter Program Needs

If you or your organization is looking for a way to help others in the community this winter, Catholic Charities has you covered!

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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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Deacon Kurt Heinrich's Story

"Being a deacon to me has been a ministry of service."

Deacon Kurt Heinrich is an ordained permanent deacon for the Diocese of Des Moines. You can learn more about the permanent diaconate by visiting dmdiocese.org/diaconate.

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Quick Links

Giving The Catholic Mirror Newsletter 2026 Annual Diocesan Appeal Living Lent

News & Blog

Labor of love gently restores focal point of historic church

February 23, 2026

Under the ultimate image of love - Jesus on the cross - an artist has labored to restore the beauty that inspires awe and prayer in a Des Moines church.

Welcome! Bishop greets more than 300 coming into the Church at Easter

February 23, 2026

Bishop William Joensen greeted and welcomed more than 300 who will come into full communion with the Catholic Church at Easter during the annual Rite of Election.

New Clients Welcome at Catholic Charities Counseling Program

February 22, 2026

The Catholic Charities Counseling Program in Des Moines is accepting new clients with a team of caring, licensed mental health professionals offering understanding, expert care.

Diocesan Events

Story of a young priest diagnosed with cancer inspires others

March 1, 2026 1:00 PM - 02:30 PM
Location: St. Francis of Assisi Parish Hall, 7075 Ashworth Road, West Des Moines, Iowa 50266

"Love God's Will" is the true story of Father Ryan Stawaisz, who graduated with a degree in chemical engineering before answering the call to the priesthood. His time as a priest was short, but those who knew him say he was inspirational.

Embracing the Great Commission with Austin Habash

March 12, 2026 9:00 AM - 03:00 PM
Location: Saints Peter & Paul parish, 105 W. 5th Street, Atlantic, IA 50022

We’re excited to invite you to an upcoming Ministry Day in the Diocese of Des Moines: “Embracing the Great Commission” hosted by the Augustine Institute and featuring Austin Habash.

Nun Run

March 27, 2026 7:50 AM - March 28, 2026 8:00 PM
Location: Convents in Kansas and Missouri

Women discerning religious life are invited to go with Father Max Carson to visit convents in Kansas and Missouri March 27-28.

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.