The Diocese of Des Moines

Welcome! Bienvenidos!

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

About Us

Catholic Schools

There are millions of 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!

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Catholic lives out his faith by helping veterans in need

Brian Sweeney puts his #FaithInAction -- training service dogs to help local veterans get back their independence.

Quick Links

Bishop-elect Joensen Resources Catholic Mirror Youth & Young Adult

News & Blog

News: Pope names Father Joensen next bishop of Des Moines diocese

July 18, 2019

Pope Francis named Loras College professor Father William M. Joensen, Ph.D., as the 10th bishop for the Diocese of Des Moines.

Marriage & Family Life: Celebrate Marriage With Anniversary Masses

July 18, 2019

Bishop to honor couples with milestone anniversaries. If you've got an anniversary of 5+ years (in 5 -year increments) or have been married 50 years or more, consider coming to celebrate. Aug. 3 a St. John Church in Massena and Aug. 4 at St. Ambrose Cathedral.

In the Heartland With Bishop Pates: Immigration: A Moral Crisis

July 10, 2019

Bishop Pates asks if, by "confronting this existential mess" at the border "with the compassion that deeply resides in all of us" perhaps we can activate our moral compass. "Pope Francis insists that when we show concern for the migrant, those seeking asylum, 'we also show concern for ourselves, for everyone; in taking care of them, we all grow; in listening to them, we also give voice to a part of ourselves that we may keep hidden because it is not well regarded nowadays.'"

Diocesan Events

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.