Summertime Faith & Fun at Praise in the Park

June 27, 2025

On Saturday, July 19, families are invited to Praise in the Park, a free, faith-filled outdoor event sponsored by the Diocese of Des Moines and Iowa Catholic Radio.

The day includes games, food, fellowship, and opportunities for prayer. People of all ages are welcome to attend.

The event is the perfect opportunity to bring the local Catholic community together and gives people a chance to meet families from other parishes, said Jessica Pancho, director of Youth Evangelization for the Diocese. The celebration is part of the Jubilee Year of Hope which began in late December. The day’s events will revolve around themes of hope, redemption, and mercy.

The speakers and live music will come from aptly named Array of Hope, a Catholic media organization that offers a variety of podcasts, videos, and worship music. Two speakers from the organization will offer reflections.

Alanis Vegas, a content creator for Array of Hope, will discuss finding one’s identity in Christ in her talk entitled, “Who Am I?”

Joshua Rosa, the co-founder of Agnus Dei Ministry, will discuss the Eucharist being the source of hope in his talk entitled, “Hope and Home.”

Array of Hope, one of the worship bands at the National Eucharistic Congress last year, will provide praise and worship music at Praise in the Park. The lively Christian music genre has risen in popularity over the years, especially with younger people. Pancho believes the atmosphere of praise and worship, especially within the presence of the Eucharist, allows people to be vulnerable, connected to each other, and feel a sense of identity.

“You feel like you are not alone in your experiences,” Pancho said.

Along with speakers and live music, the outdoor event will have games and food trucks available, adoration, and will conclude with Mass at 6 p.m. celebrated by Bishop William Joensen. Throughout the day, there will be activities that will appeal to all age groups, including young children.

Praise in the Park points towards an uncommon theme in the world today – hope.

“This event is for bringing people together and showing the hope and the joy our faith can bring to the world,” Pancho said. “And who doesn’t want to attend something where you can find joy and hope?”

Praise in the Park begins at noon at the Jamie Hurd Amphitheater in West Des Moines.

Interested in volunteering to make this event a success? Contact Jessica Pancho at jpancho@dmdiocese.org to sign up!