October is Respect Life Month

As Catholics, we are called to cherish, defend, and protect those who are most vulnerable, from the beginning to the end of their lives, and at every point in between.

Learn More

"Soul Surfer" Movie Night

All middle-school and high-school aged youth are invited to a free outdoor movie night on October 19th!

Learn More

2024 Central Region Serra Convention

All Catholics who have an interest in fostering and supporting religious vocations are invited to attend the Central Regional Serra Convention on October 11-12, 2024.

Learn More

Annual Diocesan Appeal

Through the ADA we are able to prepare disciples for the domestic church, welcome people into communion, cultivate a culture of servant leadership and draw young people into deeper communion.

Donate

Catholic Schools

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

Learn More

The Pope’s Visit to Iowa

In 1979, a passionate invitation written by one Iowa farmer caught the attention of Pope John Paul II, setting in motion the first visit by a pope to the state of Iowa. To commemorate the 45th anniversary of the papal visit, follow along with a historical program highlighting the logistical and spiritual planning process for the pope’s visit to Iowa.

Learn More

Quick Links

Annual Diocesan Appeal Catholic Mirror Appeal Eucharistic Adoration Marriage and Family Life

News & Blog

Central Region Serra Convention to be held Oct. 11-12, 2024

October 1, 2024

Hosted by the Saint Serra Club of Des Moines in the Diocese of Des Moines, all Catholics who have an interest in fostering and supporting religious vocations are invited to attend the upcoming Central Region Serra Convention.

Longtime Catholic radio show host Jon Leonetti signs off from The Morning Show

October 4, 2024

Iowa Catholic Radio Network's Jon Leonetti signed off from the morning show after 16 years of connecting listeners to Christ in the mornings. Now, he moves to a new role at the radio network.

Solidarity Season

September 30, 2024

Solidarity remains a key theme within Catholic Social Teaching and in the call to all Catholic Christians to be actively involved both in the political process and in all the other ways which society and culture can be transformed in accord with God's intent.

Diocesan Events

Deaf Christian Experience Weekend (CEW)

October 11, 2024 7:00 PM - October 13, 2024 2:00 PM
Location: Our Lady's Immaculate Heart Catholic Church, 510 E 1st St, Ankeny, IA 50021

The Deaf Christian Experience Weekend is a retreat for people from all different churches. You will enjoy speakers in ASL, group sharing (at your comfort level), group prayer, and a chance to worship together.

"Soul Surfer" Movie Night

October 19, 2024 6:00 PM
Location: Jamie Hurd Amphitheater, 4100 Mills Civic Pkwy, West Des Moines, IA 50265

All middle-school and high-school aged youth are invited to an outdoor movie night! Get inspired by the true story of Bethany Hamilton, whose faith and resilience is what keeps her going after a devastating accident.

Ministries & Services

Catholic Charities Annual Appeal

Donors who commit to an annual gift help strengthen and empower individuals and families through some of the most difficult times in their lives. Consider an annual gift that will help all year!

Mental Health Ministry

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

Giving

Your continued generosity each year helps provide the needed funds for programs and ministries throughout our Diocese. These programs provide services that no one parish could provide on its own. Every gift matters!

Catholic Foundation of Southwest Iowa

The Catholic Foundation of Southwest Iowa (CFSWIA) is a non-profit, charitable organization that assists individuals, parishes, schools, and Catholic organizations across the 23-county Diocese of Des Moines as they seek to secure and provide long-term financial support.