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Living Holy Week

This guide has a page per day of the Triduum and Easter Sunday, describing the focus of each day while giving family-friendly ideas for how to make it come alive.

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Week of Action & Holy Week Fast

In solidarity with our global family suffering from hunger, Catholic Relief Services is inviting people to join together in a Week of Action and a Holy Week Fast.

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Upcoming Youth Retreats

Have a junior high or high school student looking for retreat opportunities? Explore upcoming retreats for 8th graders, high schoolers, and high school seniors.

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Let the Jubilee Begin!

2025 marks a Jubilee, with a call from the Vatican to focus on being "Pilgrims of Hope".

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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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Repentance and the Renewal of the Mind

At the beginning of Lent we hear the words, "Repent for the Kingdom is at hand" but how do we practice repentance in our lives? It starts with the renewal of our minds.

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News & Blog

MercyOne affirms its commitment to Catholic moral teaching

April 18, 2025

Bishop William Joensen is edified that MercyOne withdrew the hospital’s name from the legal brief that caused concern and has strongly reiterated its commitment to Catholic moral teaching.

Silence is golden

April 17, 2025

Silence allows us to hear our own thoughts. But, more importantly, silence allows time for contemplation in prayer to hear God speaking to us.

From Student to Teacher: St. Patrick 8th Graders Teach Younger Peers Through Prayer

April 1, 2025

St. Patrick Catholic School's 8th graders lead unique prayer retreats, teaching younger peers about faith and developing leadership skills — a program fostering community and lifelong learning.

Diocesan Events

"Never Alone" High School Retreat

May 9, 2025 6:00 PM - May 11, 2025 12:00 PM
Location: St. Thomas More Center, 6177 Panorama Rd, Panora, IA 50216

The Diocese of Des Moines is excited to partner with NET Ministries for a retreat for high school freshmen and sophomores. NET Ministries focuses on inviting Catholic youth into a deeper relationship with their community and Jesus.

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.