Welcome!

We are a vibrant faith community inviting every person to an encounter with Jesus Christ and experience his call to friendship and communion.

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Why Mass?

Is Mass just for those who have it all together? Hardly! Our new video series explores faith in Jesus and the value of Sunday Mass for our real lives, struggles and all.

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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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A legacy of help & hope

Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Des Moines has a long history of empowering individuals and strengthening families. They helped the hungry, the homeless, and the abused. They provided counseling and a warm welcome to refugees. A year-long centennial celebration kicked off recently that will culminate in Catholic Charities' 100th birthday! Watch this story of serving others and consider how you might be able to lend a hand.

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News & Blog

Two new spiritual directors want to help folks find God in their lives

September 12, 2023

Two women were so touched by the depth their own spiritual lives had reached through spiritual direction, they want to help others find that peace and love. Now, they're trained spiritual directors.

Bishop: Women of Influence

September 12, 2023

Congratulations to Barbara Decker, executive director of Catholic Charities these past five years. She was recently named by the Des Moines Business Record as a “Woman of Influence.” The honor is well-deserved, but falls short of capturing the spiritual potency and influence this woman and daughter of the Church exerts upon many in our community.

Discover the Difference: Bishop's Celebration raises funds for programming

September 12, 2023

The second annual Bishop's Celebration of Catholic Schools raised about $56,000 that will benefit all 16 diocesan Catholic schools.

Diocesan Events

Tour of the Relics of Saint Jude the Apostle

September 26, 2023 1:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Location: St. Francis of Assisi, West Des Moines

We are pleased to announce that St. Francis of Assisi has been chosen as a stop on the three-year world tour of St. Jude’s relics. St. Jude is known as the Apostle of the Impossible and is revered for his unwavering dedication and steadfast faith. Millions have experience his intercession in times of adversity and need. Father Carlos Martins will have the relic set up in the Church. This is your opportunity to venerate the largest relic of an Apostle outside of Europe!

Pumpkin Spice & Everything Nice Run/Walk (5k + 1 mile fun run)

November 18, 2023 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Location: Valley Community Center 4444 Fuller Rd, West Des Moines, IA 50265

This fundraiser will benefit those who come to Mary's Helping Hands, an organization dedicated to providing hope, love and support for expecting mothers and fathers who may need a helping hand with basic needs for their child’s first year of life.

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.

Catholic Social Teaching

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