Support the Mission of the Church Through the Annual Diocesan Appeal
by Diocese of Des Moines | March 4, 2024
Dear Friends in Christ,
In one of the most striking passages in Matthew’s Gospel (25:31-46), we are called to welcome the stranger, visit the sick and imprisoned, and tend to those in need. We are enjoined to serve the least of our brothers and sisters, for when we do so we are serving Jesus himself. Those who minister and represent the Diocese of Des Moines seek to faithfully fulfill this Gospel mandate, offering hospitality, hope, and healing--all as part of our greater mission to enable people to encounter Jesus Christ and form deeper relationships with him and one another.
Our mission of Sowing God’s Spirit – Cultivating Connections in Christ fosters mutual spiritual bonds among those we serve and
those who serve us. Without the Annual Diocesan Appeal this endeavor would not be possible. The ADA provides more than half of the material means that equip us to Sow God’s Spirit in Southwest Iowa.
Through the ADA, our parishes receive practical administrative and ministerial support; our priests receive retirement and health benefits, and our seminarians receive robust preparation as they pursue the priesthood. Through participation in various venues of faith formation, our faithful are drawn into deeper friendship with Christ; further, focused outreach ministries serve persons, including those having special needs, with human and spiritual support.
I invite you to respond as the Spirit urges to make a gift to the ADA to advance our mission of Cultivating Connections in Christ. We accompany those who seek deeper personal connections with God and other individuals so that together we might abide in the communion of love who is Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. A contribution of any size sustains our collaborative mission expressed in 19 diocesan ministries and programs, providing vital support and resources for each parish.
I am consistently inspired and grateful for the commitment and sacrifice offered by a diverse array of our diocesan family. Your gift, no matter the size, is heartily appreciated. Thank you, and may God’s blessing enfold you and your loved ones always!
Faithfully in Christ,
Most Rev. William M. Joensen, Ph.D.
Bishop of Des Moines
