October is annually observed as Respect Life Month. Various pro-life organizations had events scheduled throughout the month. There was a weekly lunch and learn series at the diocesan pastoral center in downtown Des Moines. Shown here: Tom Chapman, of the Iowa Catholic Conference, talks about abortion and the law in the fourth installment of the series. The diocesan Respect Life contact has more information; call Maggie at 515-237-5016.

The Diocese of Des Moines, the National Catholic Rural Life Conference and Living History Farms partnered to offer multiple events to celebrate the 30th anniversary of Pope John Paul II's historic visit to Iowa in October 1979. Shown here at the Friday evening symposium is Joe Hays, of Immaculate Conception Parish in St. Marys, along with Archbishop Celestino Migliore. Hays is the farmer who wrote the letter inviting Pope John Paul to the diocese 30 years ago. Archbishop Migliore, the Vatican's permanent observer to the U.N., was the keynote speaker for the symposium and the principle celebrant at the anniversary Mass.

Bishop Richard E. Pates, in responding to concerns about the flu, has informed priests that, if warranted by the situation in the local parish community, they may make temporary liturgical modifications. The diocese has encouraged Mass-goers as well as priests, deacons and extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion to use good hygiene and common sense to prevent the spread of any illness.

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Health care reform
Bishop Pates column in Aug. 31, 2009 Des Moines Register.           
Bishop Pates issued a statement on health care reform.
See the U.S. bishops' Action Alert on health care reform.
U.S. bishops' official website on health care reform.
USCCB domestic policy chairman Bishop William Murphy's letter to Congress.
Catholic Charities urges health care reform consistent with Catholic teaching.
Bishop Pates on Oct. 30 encouraged people to contact their U.S. Representatives and Senators about pending health care reform legislation. See the press release and a copy of the bulletin insert in English and Spanish.