A statement from the Diocese of Des Moines

October 16, 2024

A Statement from the Diocese of Des Moines

In early August, canonical concerns were raised to the leadership of the Diocese of Des Moines and Prairie Fire Ministries regarding one of the lay leaders within the Prairie Fire Ministries organization. At that time, the Diocese and Prairie Fire mutually agreed to pause Prairie Fire’s ministries until the concerns could be adequately addressed.

A review of the concerns confirmed conduct by a lay leader of the Prairie Fire Ministries leadership team in his capacity as a spiritual director to adult laypersons, outside the context of Prairie Fire Ministries, that is inconsistent with Catholic tradition and practices, and canon law. In the interest of providing pastoral care for the Diocese, Bishop William Joensen has taken appropriate action to address the conduct directly and is working with Prairie Fire Ministries to determine the future of this ministry within the Diocese of Des Moines.

Prairie Fire Ministries has abundantly blessed the lives of many in the Diocese of Des Moines and beyond. Its core message—that God wants to share his love with everyone and offer healing to those who come to him—remains true. Healing opportunities continue to exist in the Diocese’s parishes through the sacraments of reconciliation and anointing of the sick, as well as prayer of the faithful.