Pastoral Response Team created

April 17, 2025

In the wake of recent natural disasters and community tragedies, Bishop William Joensen has taken a significant step to enhance pastoral care.

Over the last few years, the Diocese’s communities have endured devastating floods along the Missouri River, a tragic school shooting in Perry, and severe tornadoes impacting Winterset, Greenfield, and Minden.

Recognizing the need for a more robust response, Bishop Joensen brought his concerns to the Diocesan Pastoral Council last year.

Deacon Tom Bradley, newly appointed to the council and tasked with special projects, took on the challenge of creating an emergency pastoral response team.

After extensive research and consultations with affected communities, Deacon Bradley developed a comprehensive plan in collaboration with Deacons Rob Stark and Eric Pugh, Iowa County Emergency Management officials, and diocesan leaders.

This May, Bishop Joensen will launch the Catholic Pastoral Response Team composed of four priests and seven deacons. Many of the deacons bring valuable experience from military service, with several members, including Deacons Stark and Pugh, having led disaster relief efforts as part of the Iowa Army National Guard.

The team has undergone training and stands ready to respond to disasters within diocesan boundaries.

“Our mission is to be a ministry of presence and hope in times of severe loss and grief,” said Deacon Bradley.

With a commitment to serving all, regardless of faith, the team strives to offer immediate and compassionate support to communities in need.

The team’s presence during times of immense grief and loss transforms faith into tangible hope, reminding others that they are not alone.

This initiative is more than an emergency service; it’s a beacon of spiritual strength, resilience, and compassion that reminds people of God’s enduring love during life’s trials.