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Welcome Home!

All 80 parishes are now offering some form of public worship. Learn about our phased-in approach.

COVID-19

Meet The Bishop

Our shepherd, Bishop William Joensen, leads us to know and love Jesus Christ in our time.

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Parish & Mass Times

We serve the 23 counties of central and southwest Iowa, making it easy to find a parish near you!

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Welcome back! 

We are so happy to welcome the faithful back to the table of the Lord. Bishop William Joensen invites all to publicly celebrate the Mass, though there will be some changes you'll see. It's part of loving each other by taking precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Check with your parish to see what phase they're in for the regathering. And if you are vulnerable or are living with someone vulnerable to the coronavirus, know that the Sunday obligation for Mass continues to be suspended and God's grace and mercy are with you.

 

 

St. Junipero Serra and race relations

Bishop Joensen reflects on St. Junipero Serra, race relations and more. He also encourages you to watch the Prayer Vigil for Justice held earlier this week, which can be viewed here. 

 

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coronavirus Resources Catholic Mirror Youth & Young Adult

News & Blog

News: Priest Suspended Following Allegation of Misconduct

July 10, 2020

Bishop William Joensen suspended Father James Kirby on Friday, July 10, following an allegation of inappropriate conduct. Father Kirby may not engage in public priestly ministry and must abide by several other restrictions. While he remains a priest of the diocese, he will be required to complete set conditions and exhibit significant reform in order to return to active ministry.

Bishop: Flats, Furloughs and Sabbath Rest

July 27, 2020

In early July I finally set out on the Great Western Trail for what I hoped would be a bike ride down to Martensdale and back. I sailed along for the first ten miles, but then my back tire flatted and so I pulled over to change the tube. I'm not the most adept at bike maintenance, and sure enough, I pinched the tube while installing it, and so was quite receptive to the friendly group that stopped to lend a hand and get me back on the road. Ten more miles...

To Reconcile All Things: Racism in America

July 7, 2020

Justin White, diocesan director of Youth and Young Adult Ministries, says we are not immune to the ways of the world that are sinful, so we must strive in the name of Jesus against them.

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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.

Social Justice

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