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Welcome!

We are a vibrant faith community inviting every person to an encounter with Jesus Christ and experience his call to friendship and communion.

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Annual Diocesan Appeal

Through the ADA we are able to prepare disciples for the domestic church, welcome people into communion, cultivate a culture of servant leadership and draw young people into deeper communion.

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National Eucharistic Pilgrimage

"...As faith in the real presence of Christ in his Eucharist deepened, the Church became conscious of the meaning of silent adoration of the Lord present under the Eucharistic species." (CCC 1379)

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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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Why Mass?

Is Mass just for those who have it all together? Hardly! Our new video series explores faith in Jesus and the value of Sunday Mass for our real lives, struggles and all.

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Volunteers Make an Impact with Catholic Charities

Catholic Charities could not do its work without the many volunteers running things behind the scenes. Each act of kindness helps fulfill Catholic Charities mission to empower individuals and strengthen families.

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News & Blog

Bishop extends parish assignments for six priests

April 11, 2024

Six priests will serve their faith communities for an additional six years after Bishop William Joensen extended their assignments.

Our days are blessed a bit more with song

April 12, 2024

Easter is more than one day. Yet in the days and weeks after Easter, each day can seem ordinary. But if we open our eyes and pause for a moment, we'll see changes that remind us of Jesus' rising and his deep love for us.

Jesus Christ is risen, Alleluia, Alleluia!

March 31, 2024

Jesus’ love unlocks human hearts so that we may no longer be held fast by fear, by complacency, or by sin. As we enter the Easter season, we are awed and assured that God’s love is forever for us.

Diocesan Events

Nazareth Sisters of the Annunciation Open House

April 25, 2024 7:00 PM - 08:00 PM
Location: St. Pius X Catholic Church Martha and Mary Fellowship Hall 3663 66th Street Urbandale, Iowa 50322

Come learn more about the work of the Nazareth Sisters of the Annunciation Living in Our Community.

Mental Health Ministry Retreat

May 5, 2024 12:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Location: Catholic Pastoral Center

Join us for a day of prayer and fellowship. This retreat will offer a deeper understanding and appreciation for topics related to mental health from a Catholic perspective. Prior to the retreat the Diocese will host a Mass at St. Ambrose Cathedral (607 High Street, Des Moines, IA 50309) at 11 am. The retreat will run from 12-4 PM at the Catholic Pastoral Center. Lunch is provided, as are all materials. All are welcome to attend! Our keynote speaker is Matt Connolly, Board President of MindSpring Mental Health Alliance. Matt advocates in many ways for defeating stigma on mental illness and raises recovery awareness. He earned the Business Record's 40 under 40 award in 2013 and was named the DSM Westside Chamber 2018 Citizen of the Year.

Ministries & Services

Service Opportunities

Looking for a place to share your time and talent in service to others? There are several ways to get involved within Des Moines and our surrounding communities.

Giving

The Diocese of Des Moines provides many opportunities for people to share their gifts. Your generosity and support impact children and families of our community.

Catholic Social Teaching

In Catholic Social Teaching, the Church outlines seven specific ways we can put our faith into action by loving one another.