Welcome! Bienvenidos!

Want to learn, serve, find comfort and compassion? The Diocese of Des Moines welcomes you!

About Us

Catholic Schools

There are million reasons why a Catholic education is the best education around. Witness the difference!

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Meet the Bishop

Led by our shepherd, Bishop Pates, we help people know God and love God.

Bishop Pates

Parish & Mass Times

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

Join Us

Looking for a road trip? Check out the Catholic churches in Shelby County!

If you happen to be near Shelby County, be sure to swing through the town of Panama to see St. Mary of the Assumption Church. The Gothic-style church was constructed 101 years ago.

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New Bishop Resources Catholic Mirror Youth & Young Adult

News & Blog

News: Diocesan Schools Superintendent Departs

April 11, 2019

Diocesan Schools Superintendent Dr. Tracy Bonday has accepted a position as Head of High School at the oldest Catholic school in the country, Ursuline Academy in New Orleans. Dr. Bonday's legacy in Des Moines will be the completion of a schools strategic planning process that moves our schools from good to great.

In the Heartland With Bishop Pates: Dying and Rising

April 16, 2019

Make our own the "dying and rising of Christ" throughout our entire life experience.

Marriage & Family Life: There is a Third Option for couples wanting to improve their marriages

April 16, 2019

While we both loved the idea of being married, we really had no idea how to actually do it, not well at least. By the grace of God, I'm here today to tell you that we learned, we grew and we overcame those rocky years.

Diocesan Events

St. Pio Relics coming to Des Moines

May 8, 2019 8:30 AM - 04:30 PM
Location: St. Ambrose Cathedral, 607 High St., Des Moines, Iowa

Relics of St. Pio of Pietrelcino, also known as Padre Pio, will be available for veneration on Wednesday, May 8 at St. Ambrose Cathedral from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with Mass at 5 p.m.

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.