Vicars

The diocese has a few priests with special responsibilities as assigned by the bishop.

Vicar General

Father Michael Amadeo, pastor of Our Lady's Immaculate Heart Parish in Ankeny, serves as a vicar general. He is responsible for assisting the bishop in the general administration of the diocese. He can be reached at 515-237-5039.

Judicial Vicar

Father Christopher Pisut, pastor of St. Augustin Parish in Des Moines, is the judicial vicar for the diocese. With a degree in Canon law (Church law), Father Pisut is responsible for overseeing the Tribunal and advising the bishop on issues related to Church law. He can be reached at 515-255-1175.

Associate Judicial Vicar and Canonical Advisor

Father Adam Westphal can be reached at 641-782-5278.

Vicar for Diaconate & Seminarians

Father Ross Parker, the diocesan Vocations director, oversees the permanent diaconate program from formation through ordination and post-ordination formation. He can be reached at 515-237-5050.

Vicar for International Priests

Vacant.

Vicars for Retired Priests

Father Larry Hoffmann and Father Ken Gross, both of whom are retired, share this role of caring for retired priests and maintaining communication with them. They can be reached by calling 515-237-5039.

Vicar for Newly Ordained Priests

Father Dan Kirby, pastor of St. John the Apostle Parish in Norwalk and administrator of the Shrine of the Assumption in Churchville, provides support and guidance to our newly ordained priests for five years after their ordination day.

Co-Vicars for Religious

Father Ray Higgins, pastor of St. Theresa Parish in Des Moines, along with Franciscan Sister Joyce Blum, provide support and guidance to women religious of the diocese. Father Higgins can be reached at 515-279-4654.

Vicar for Finance

Msgr. Ed Hurley, a retired priest, advises the diocese on matters of finance.

Parochial Vicar

This is a title given to a priest who assists a pastor with the pastoral and sacramental care of parishioners.