Diocese of Des Moines Speaker Approval Form

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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.

Requests for permission to invite an outside speaker must be submitted in writing to the Office of the Bishop using the
following Speaker Approval Form.

This form should be completed by:

• the pastor or his delegate for parish events
• the principal for school events
• a chancery staff member for diocesan events
• event or organizational leadership for events hosted by Catholic organizations

An invitation to present should not be extended until permission from the Bishop or his delegate has been granted in writing.