Welcome! Bienvenidos!

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

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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

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

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Welcome! Bienvenidos!

Welcome to our diocesan website! I hope you find the information and resources you need plus a whole lot more. We're using not only new technology, but new social communication tools. These are a means of providing information and resources, educating on Church teachings and their application to current-day events, and fostering a dialogue for all of us on a journey to grow closer to God.

I encourage you to check back here often and sign up to receive the latest news and information through the blog and our social media presence.

Sincerely yours in Christ,

The Most Reverend Richard E. Pates
Bishop of Des Moines

Quick Links

New Bishop Resources Events Youth & Young Adult

News & Blog

News: Reaction to Pennsylvania Grand Jury Report

August 16, 2018

Reaction of Bishop Richard Pates to the Pennsylvania grand jury report and an explanation of the steps the Des Moines diocese is taking to prevent sexual abuse of children by clergy.

In the Heartland With Bishop Pates: Welcome to the Newly Ordained Deacons

August 16, 2018

Bishop explains the role of deacons. They're not "little" priests. They are an order unto themselves and comprise an identity which provides meaning and engagement in mission for the Church.

Marriage & Family Life: Be a little more vulnerable

August 16, 2018

We need each other, and it's only when we recognize and embrace this that we form the bonds that make communities meaningful.

Diocesan Events

Bishop celebrates milestone anniversaries

August 25, 2018 4:00 PM - 05:30 PM
Location: St. Ambrose Cathedral, 607 High St., Des Moines, Iowa

Bishop Richard Pates will honor all couples with milestone anniversaries (5-year increments and 50+ years) on Aug. 25 at the 4 p.m. Mass at St. Ambrose Cathedral in Des Moines. A certificate of blessing is available with registration for couples celebrating milestone anniversaries. A light reception follows. Reserved seating will be available for these couples and their families. For more information, contact Adam Storey at 515-237-5056.

Farewell and Thank You to Kim Mandelkow

August 30, 2018 5:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Location: St. Augustin Church in Des Moines

As our worship director, Kim Mandelkow, prepares to become the worship director in the Archdiocese of Milwaukee we want to thank her for the blessing she's been to our diocese with a gathering Aug. 30 at St. Augustin Church in Des Moines, 5-7 p.m. All are invited.

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.