What's Your Vocation Call?

If you feel God may be calling you to priesthood or religious life, let us know. Talk to your pastor, a seminarian, and our Vocations Office for more information.

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Reach for the Stars

Teens: What is your North Star and who will help you get there? The Ad Astra faith conference may have answers!

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Summertime Service

Looking for something to do this summer? Check out all the family volunteer opportunities at Catholic Charities.

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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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Congratulations Father Stan

We congratulate our newest priest, Father Stan Asjes, who was ordained June 26. What inspired him to take this leap for the Lord? Hear him share his story.

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Quick Links

Giving The Catholic Mirror Newsletter 2026 Annual Diocesan Appeal Confirmation Changes

News & Blog

'I’ve always left part of my heart': Fr. David Polich Celebrates 50 Years

June 30, 2026

Fr. Polich was ordained on June 25, 1976, at St. John’s Church, after formation at Loras College and University of Notre Dame. In 2026, he celebrates 50 years as a priest in the Diocese of Des Moines.

Pilgrims Wanted: 2027 World Youth Day Seoul

June 30, 2026

The Diocese of Des Moines WYD Seoul pilgrimage will be July 27-August 9, 2027. It will include travel days, as well as three days of dedicated time at the local host parish in which pilgrims will participate in “spiritual, cultural, and service activities together with local parishioners.” A special event is tentatively scheduled for pilgrims to visit the Korean Demilitarized Zone, a heavily fortified, 2.5-mile buffer between North Korea and South Korea.

A Blessing, Father to Son

June 14, 2026

Father Nick Stark, pastor of St. Elizabeth Seton Parish in Carlisle, has had his father serving alongside him for about 90 days. Earlier this year, the bishop reassigned Deacon Rob from St. Pius X in Urbandale to Christ the King and St. Elizabeth Seton, after both parishes needed deacon coverage.

Diocesan Events

Guadalupe Statue Visits St. Ambrose Cathedral

July 15, 2026 12:00 AM - July 23, 2026 12:00 AM
Location: St. Ambrose Cathedral. 607 High Street. Des Moines, IA 50309

Come see the life-sized statue of Our Lady of Guadalupe that's visiting the Diocese of Des Moines from July 15 to September 11.

Support Life Mass and Dinner

July 15, 2026 5:00 PM - 06:30 PM
Location: St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 7075 Ashworth Road, West Des Moines, Iowa

Support Biking for Babies missionaries who are riding 600 miles this summer to raise funds for pregnancy resource centers.

Ad Astra Catholic Youth Conference

July 17, 2026 6:00 PM - July 18, 2026 8:00 PM
Location: Grand View University, Rasmussen Center, 2800 East 14th Street, Des Moines, IA. 50316

Join us for the first ever Ad Astra Youth Conference. Ad astra means “to the stars.” High schoolers are at a fascinating point in their lives—they are beginning to embark on their own great adventure. What will be your guiding star? Will you wander and be lost, or will you chart a course of meaning, purpose, and greatness? Will you drift with the current, or aim for your Destiny? This two-day gathering for high schoolers will take place July 17-18 at Grandview University in Des Moines, IA.

Ministries & Services

Deaf & Disability Ministry

The Office for Disability Ministry serves as a resource providing parishes, schools, individuals and families with tools to make the Catholic faith accessible to all.

Marriage & Family Life

Sharing in Christ's vision, the Diocese of Des Moines Marriage and Family Life Department seeks to work with parishes and couples, walking with all families in all their stages of life.

Mental Health Ministry

Mental Health Ministry is the process of spiritual accompaniment with others as they experience God's presence, love, and healing.

Youth Ministry

The Diocesan Office of Youth Ministry partners with parishes and families to foster these communities and experiences as our Diocesan youth traverse the difficult world of being a teen.