Office of the Chancellor
The chancellor of the Diocese of Des Moines is Jason Kurth. Canonically, the chancellor is the chief record keeper for the diocese. The chancellor assists the bishop and vicar general in the administration of the diocesan staff to promote professional and faithful service to God's people.
Speaker Policy
When a forum discussing matters of the Catholic faith is either provided or promoted within the parishes, schools or other Catholic organizations, the faithful have the right to expect that what they hear will be consistent with the teachings of the Church and with the pastoral direction of the Diocese (cf. Can.229§1). Similarly, the Bishop has the solemn responsibility to “firmly defend the integrity and unity of the faith to be believed” (Can. 386§2). Therefore, it is the diocesan bishop’s responsibility to do what can be done to assure speakers and honorees meet this expectation.
The Speaker Approval Policy and Procedure is to be used in the vetting process for speakers who present on matters of Catholic faith, spirituality or morals. Any person under consideration to give a presentation on matters of Catholic faith, spirituality or morals must be approved in writing by the Diocesan Bishop before an invitation is extended to them.
The following suitability forms may be used in place of a letter of good standing for visiting clergy and religious:
Request Speaker Approval
Diocese of Des Moines Clergy - Requesting Letters of Suitability
As we expect visiting clergy to demonstrate suitability for ministry, so should we provide such assurance to other dioceses. Clergy are expected to request a letter of good standing from the Diocese prior to conducting sacramental or pastoral ministry in another location. Upon request, the Chancellor will provide a letter of suitability to the hosting diocese, and will carbon copy the local pastor (or other institutional leader) and the requesting clergy.
Request Letter of Suitability