St. Dymphna Mass for Mental Health

May 15, 2025 5:30 PM
Location: St. Ambrose Cathedral, 607 High St, Des Moines, IA 50309

All are invited to a St. Dymphna Mass with Bishop Joensen at St. Ambrose Cathedral on May 15th at 5:30 PM. St. Dympha medals will be blessed during the Mass, and there will be a social in the parish hall following the Mass.

About St. Dymphna

St. Dymphna has inspired people for centuries as the patron saint of mental health. Her story serves as a beacon of hope for those seeking solace and healing.

Born in Ireland in the seventh century, Dymphna was the daughter of a pagan king and a devout Christian mother. After her mother’s passing, her father’s mental health deteriorated, leading him to delusionally propose marriage to his own daughter. Fleeing for her safety, Dymphna eventually was found by her father, who, upon her refusal to return with him, tragically took her life.

Despite the sorrow of her story, St. Dymphna continues to offer hope and healing. A church was built in her honor in Geel, Belgium, which has since become a sanctuary for those with mental illness, where they are treated with dignity and integrated into community life.