Advent Resources Available

Advent is a busy time! It can also be a meaningful, joyful, and even peaceful time if we live Advent intentionally, as a season of preparing our hearts and homes for Jesus's coming.

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High school junior on national faith council

Catie Wilwerding was chosen as 1 of 14 members to serve on the NFCYM's National Youth Advisory Council.

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Jubilee Holy Year 2025

Throughout 2025, the Catholic Church celebrates a yearlong "event of great spiritual, ecclesial, and social significance in the life of the Church." The Holy Year, under the theme of "Pilgrims of Hope," marks the 2,025-year anniversary of the Incarnation of the Lord.

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Applications Open for CCHD Grants

Non-profit organizations and parish-based service projects serving low-income and/or underserved communities are invited to apply for a grant from the Catholic Campaign for Human Development.

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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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The Catholic View of the Human Person

From the very beginning each person is known and loved by God, and "knit together" in their mother's womb. This is why every person has the right to live with dignity from birth until their natural death. Join Dr. John Huynh, Director of Social Justice for Catholic Charities and the Diocese of Des Moines, for his new series on Catholic Social Teaching.

Quick Links

Annual Diocesan Appeal Jubilee 2025 Eucharistic Adoration Marriage and Family Life

News & Blog

Bishops offer letter to immigrant community

November 20, 2024

As national leaders talk about changes with immigration policy, the Catholic bishops of Iowa say to immigrants: "Please know that you are not forgotten and that your Church stands with you in solidarity."

Discover the Difference: Supporting the Future of Catholic Education

November 19, 2024

The Diocese is undertaking an ambitious new vision to secure a vibrant future for our schools. This vision includes raising administrator, faculty, and staff compensation to competitive levels aligned with state initiatives, ensuring our schools attract and retain top educators. We are also investing in enhanced facilities and cutting-edge technology to meet the evolving academic needs of every student. Read on to learn more about how you can help support the future of Catholic education.

An Affair of the Heart

November 13, 2024

This month of November spans one of my favorite feast days, All Saints, then inclines toward the conclusion of the liturgical year with the Solemnity of Christ the King before winding up with our most religious national holiday, Thanksgiving.

Diocesan Events

Forge Presents: Tim Glemkowski – Men and Mass

November 20, 2024 7:00 PM
Location: The Foundry, 111 S 11th St., West Des Moines, IA 50265

Statistics show that your average Catholic Sunday mass is short on male participation. If you have trouble finding connection, meaning, and value in the Church, this talk is for you!

Tap into Faith with Fr. James Ahenkora

November 24, 2024 7:00 PM
Location: Fenders Brewing, 212 Van Dorn St, Polk City, IA 50226

Tap into Faith is a monthly event brought to you by the local Catholic community. Happening on the 4th Sunday of each month, it offers the opportunity for fellowship, theology and some great beer!

Bishop’s Discernment Retreat

December 20, 2024 12:00 AM - December 22, 2024 12:00 AM
Location: Creighton University Retreat Center, 16493 Contrail Ave, Griswold, IA 51535

This is a unique opportunity for men who are high school seniors or older thinking about priesthood. The men will join Bishop Joensen and current seminarians on a retreat to learn more about discernment and life as a diocesan priest.

Ministries & Services

Giving

Your continued generosity each year helps provide the needed funds for programs and ministries throughout our Diocese. These programs provide services that no one parish could provide on its own. Every gift matters!

Catholic Charities Annual Appeal

Donors who commit to an annual gift help strengthen and empower individuals and families through some of the most difficult times in their lives. Consider an annual gift that will help all year!

Mental Health Ministry

Mental Health Ministry is the process of spiritual accompaniment with others as they experience God's presence, love, and healing.

Catholic Foundation of Southwest Iowa

The Catholic Foundation of Southwest Iowa (CFSWIA) is a non-profit, charitable organization that assists individuals, parishes, schools, and Catholic organizations across the 23-county Diocese of Des Moines as they seek to secure and provide long-term financial support.