The Boy Scouts of America have posted online a statement saying its national council "approved a resolution to remove the restriction denying membership to youth on the basis of sexual orientation alone." The Diocese of Des Moines statement on this change in policy is as follows.

Boy Scout organizations within the Diocese of Des Moines that are supported by Catholic churches and schools will be guided by a single diocesan policy in accord with the teaching of the Catholic Church. This teaching is derived from the Catechism of the Catholic Church.

"The number of men and women who have deep-seated homosexual tendencies is not negligible. They do not choose their homosexual condition; for most of them it is a trial. They must be accepted with respect, compassion and sensitivity. Every sign of unjust discrimination in their regard should be avoided. These persons are called to fulfill God's will in their lives and, if they are Christians, to unite to the sacrifice of the Lord's Cross the difficulties they may encounter from their condition." (Catechism of the Catholic Church #2358)

"Homosexual persons are called to chastity. By the virtues of self-mastery that teach them inner freedom, at times by the support of disinterested friendship, by prayer and sacramental grace, they can and should gradually and resolutely approach Christian perfection." (Catechism of the Catholic Church #2359).

It is the practice of the Boy Scouts to insist on chastity in all of its events and programs which the Church obviously supports and advocates.

The Knights and Ladies of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem will hold their annual meeting and investiture in Des Moines on Sept. 20-23. The event is expected to draw about 650 people from the Northern Lieutenancy, which includes Minnesota, Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas and Colorado. The event will be at the Des Moines Marriott Downtown, with the overflow hotel being the Hyatt Place/Des Moines. The Knights and Ladies of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem support the works of the patriarch in the Holy Land.

While you’re out grocery shopping this week, why not pick up a container of juice for homeless kids? Six out of 10 residents at the St. Joseph Emergency Family Shelter are kids, and they need and appreciate juice. You can assist Catholic Charities and its homeless shelter by lending a helping hand. The shelter is at 1535 11th St. in Des Moines, 515-282-1235.

Sister Pat Scherer, who worked for 35 years settling refugees in the Des Moines metro area, was honored recently with a gift of $1,000 given to St. Ambrose Refugee Ministry program in her name. She was honored as a finalist in the 2013 Lumen Christi Award through Catholic Extension. Bishop Richard Pates had nominated Sister Pat for the honor in light of her many years of dedicated assistance to refugees. She was one of 41 nominations.

This weekend is the annual Catholic Communication Campaign special collection. The campaign provides content the way you need it -- in podcasts, on websites and on social media sites -- and always with the New Evangelization in mind. Please be generous in this week's collection and support this important work. Half of your donations stay in our diocese to support our communication needs.

Remember Theology on Tap, when you could grab some food, a drink and have a good conversation about faith in a relaxing atmosphere? A new version, called Brewing Faith, will be tomorrow, May 17, in the River Room at Raccoon River Brewing Co. in Des Moines. Father Chris Reising, pastor of Our Lady of the Americas parish, will present "There's Something About Mary." Come at 6:30 pm for food/drinks. The talk begins once the food is served, about 7 pm. Discussion and socializing follows. For more information, contact Tessa.

Fifty eight people completed one of several components of the JustFaith program in the Des Moines diocese, bringing to a total of 367 who have graduated from the program since it was first brought to the diocese in 2002. Recently, 27 people graduated from the JustFaith social justice formation program; 22 completed the Engaging Spirituality program which focuses on both social justice and spirituality; and nine graduated from the J-Walking high school component of JustFaith. JustFaith is coordinated in the diocese by the Center for Social Ministry, a nonprofit organization that serves as a member of the Catholic Charities Social Justice Consortium.

As Catholics, we dedicate the month of May to the Blessed Virgin Mary. Join author Sister Mary Christine Athans, BVM, as she shares her humor, research and reflections surrounding our Blessed Mother. It's an evening that will bring us to a greater appreciation of Mary in the life of Jesus. This Year of Faith event will be on May 22 at 6 pm at St. Theresa Parish in Des Moines. There will be a socil with beverages, fruit and finger sandwiches beginning at 6 pm wtih Sr. Athans beginning her presentation at 6:30 pm. This faith-sharing event is free and childcare is provided. For more information, pelase contact Sherri Simmer at 515-237-5058 or email her.

Friends of Father Tom DeCarlo wish to invite his diocesan friends to his 70th birthday party on May 25 at 6:30 p.m. for a rigatoni dinner at Crhist the King Parish Hall, 5711 SW 9th St. Cost is $5 per person/free-will donation at the door.

The four bishops of Iowa penned a letter to the editor that appeared in Friday's Des Moines Register addressing health care. The bishops say they are grateful the governor and state legislature are talking about how to make health care coverage available to low-income Iowans. The issue is urgent. The bishops say about a quarter-million Iowans lack health care. "We call upon our political leaders to set aside partisan concerns and consider this issue with prudence and a commitment to the common good -- especially since the current limited IowaCare program is expiring," they said. You can read the entire letter here. It is signed by Dubuque Archbshop Jerome Hanus, OSB, Sioux City Bishop R. Walker Nickless, Davenport Bishop Martin Amos and Des Moines Bishop Richard Pates.

The Archdiocese of Dubuque invites us to commemorate the fifth anniversary of the Postville immigration raid tomorrow, May 10, at Cedar Rapids. It begins at noon with a remembrance ritual at the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Iowa. AT 12:30 pm there will be a Walk for Justice to Immaculate Conception Church, where there will be an interfaith prayer and a call for immigration reform. For more information, call Sister Mary McCauley, BVM, at 563-583-8989 or email her at mmccauley@bvmcong.org.

The diocesan Young Adult Ministry Office is looking for a volunteer with graphic design/marketing skills. The office is rebranding and updating its logo(s). If you're interested, contact Tessa.

May is traditionally the month of Mary. This May, the diocese is offering a study guide to accompany Immaculee Ilibagiza's book "Our Lady of Kibeho." The study guide is available on the dicoesan website here. The book speaks of the experience of the people of Rwanda as they encounter an apparition of the Blessed Virgin Mary under the name Mother the Word. The book tells the story of the three visionaries, Alphonsine, Anathalie and Marie-Claire, and the lives that were touched through the messages they shared with the world. This is a good book for small groups to read together, for families to read and discuss or for your personal reflection. The book is available for sale on Amazon or by typing "Our Lady of Kibeho" in the search bar.

Bishop Richard Pates, in his role as chair of the U.S. bishops' Committee on International Justice and Peace, has been busy this week. He penned a letter to National Security Advisor Thomas Donilon about the recent kidnapping of the Syriac Orthodox and Greek Orthodox archbishops of Aleppo. Their driver was murdered and the two archbishops were kidnapped while they were on a humanitarian mission to help Syrians fleeing for the border.

Bishop Pates also wrote to Secretary of State John Kerry about conflict in Mali. "Armed conflict is subsiding and the northern provinces are returning to Malian control, although violent attacks and banditry continue..." Bishop Pates wrote. He offers several suggested solutions.

You can read both letters here.

It's time to order your tickets for Catholic Charities Night at the Iowa Cubs on June 6 at Principal Park. Tickets are available through parishes, by phone at 515-237-5089 or online at Catholic Charities. Special ticket blocks are available for groups and a limited number of themed skyboxes are also available. This is a great opportunity to have fun while knowing that you're lending a helping hand to those in need.

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month, a time to spread awareness and support local programs working to help victims of violence. During the month of April, our good friends at St. Jude Hospice have offered to match dollar for dollar every gift given to Catholic Charities Phoenix House GROW Fund up to $5,000. Donations will support the domestic violence shelter and sexual absue program in Council Bluffs and surrounding area. The program includes shelter to victims of domestic violence and sexual assault, court and legal adovcacy, crisis counseling and prevention education. Call 515-237-5078 to make a donation to the GROW Fund or go to Catholic Charities and click on "Donate."

Bishop Richard Pates, in his role as chair of the U.S. bishops' Committee on International Justice and Peace, sent a letter on Monday to the U.S. House urging a "Circle of Protection" around the poor and vulnerable.

Joined by Stockton Bishop Stephen Blaire, chair of the U.S. bishops' Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development, Bishop Pates said both he and Bishop Blaire had been consistent on supporting a reduction in the federal deficit. However, both said "... a just framework for future budgets cannot rely on disproportionate cuts to programs that help people live in a manner worthy of their human dignity." They went on to say, "This will include raising adequate revenues, eliminating unnecessary military and other spending, and addressing the long-term costs of health insurance and retirement programs fairly."

To look at decisions with moral criteria, one must consider whether the decisions threaten human life and dignity, how they affect "the least of these" (Matthew 25), and that they promote the common good of all, "especially ordinary workers and families who struggle to live in dignity in difficult economic times."

Bishops Pates and Blaire concluded their letter saying, "The moral measure of this budget debate is not which party wins or which powerful interests prevail, but rather how those who are jobless, hungry, homeless and poor are treated. Their voices are too often missing but they have the most compelling moral claim on our consciences and our common resources."

You can read the full letter here.

On Sunday, May 5, the St. Thomas More Center, home of Catholic Youth Camp, in Panora will host a Catholic Family Day for all families. Come for a day of cultural celebration. Bishop Richard Pates will be celebrating 11 a.m. Mass, followed by a day of fun and faith. Tours of camp will be provided and some of the summer fun activities will be available to play: soccer, mini-golf, Gaga ball, kick ball and archery. There will be an opportunity for parents to ask questions about CYC. Lunch is provided by the diocesan Hispanic community. A free-will donation is appreciated.

El Centro Santo Tomas More, hogar de Campamentos Católicos para Jóvenes en Panora, Iowa será la sede para el Día Familiar Católico.  El evento familiar es el  día 5 de Mayo, será una celebración cultural. El Obispo Richard Pates oficiará la Misa a las 11AM, después tendremos eventos de diversión y de fe. Se estará ofreciendo una guía del campamento y algunas de las actividades de verano estarán disponibles para todos como futbol, mini-golf, Gaga ball, kick ball, Tiro de arco. Habrá oportunidad para que los padres de familia hagan preguntas sobre el Campamento Católico para jóvenes 2013.  La comunidad Hispana de la diócesis proveerá la comida. Donativos voluntarios serán muy apreciados. ¡Venga con la familia a un gran día de campo!

Patrocinado por St Thomas More y Ministerio Hispano

This Sunday -- commonly k nown as Good Shepherd Sunday -- is the 50th World Day of Prayer for vocations. The theme, "Vocations as a sign of hope founded in faith" underscorees the hope that vocations to the priesthood and consecrated life bring to the entire Catholic Church.

"The Church's basic mission is to preach the Gospel and help build a civilization of love in our world today," said St. Louis Archbishop Robert Carlson, chair of the U.S. bishops' Committee on Clergy, Consecrated Life and Vocations. "We need good, holy priests and dedicated men and women committed to the consecrated life to help build the Kingdom of God here and now. Therefore, we want a stronger culture of vocations in our own nation to help each Catholic realize that we all have a responsibility to invite young people to consider if God is calling them to the priesthood or consecrated life."

Have you been thinking about a vocation to the priesthood? Contact Father Joe Pins at 515-237-5050.

The Diocesan Council of Catholic Women is having its annual convetnion this Saturday at Ss. Peter & Paul Parish in Atlantic with the theme "Be the Voice of Christ as a Catholic Woman." Contact Eileen O'Connor at ejoconnor@msn.com for more information.

Bishop Richard Pates congratulates Dubuque Archbishop Jerome G. Hanus, OSB on his retirement after having served northeast Iowa for nearly 19 years. Bishop Pates also congratulates Archbishop-designate Michael O. Jackels, of Wichita, Kansas, on his appointment by Pope Francis to the Archdiocese of Dubuque.

"Archbishop Hanus has served with a great pastoral heart and as an attentive administrator during these years of significant transition both in the Archdiocese of Dubuque and the state of Iowa," said Bishop Pates. "We salute the archbishop who very much looks forward to this well-deserved retirement."

Bishop Pates also offers congratulations to Bishop Jackels, who has served as the bishop of Wichita since April 4, 2005. "The Diocese of Des Moines extends a heartfelt welcome to Archbishop-designate Jackels. As metropolitan of the Dubuque Province, we look forward to his leadership and service in the vibrant faith communities of Iowa."

Spread the word: A Bella Vita dinner for single women ages 16-35 who want to learn more about religious life with Dominican sisters from Ann Arbor, Michigan will be on Thursday, April 11. Holy hour is at 5 p.m. with dinner and discussion from 6-8 p.m at Christ the King Church, 5711 SW 9th St. in Des Moines. Reservations are due by this Monday, April 8. Email your reservation to the diocesan Vocations Office or call 515-237-5014.

Did you hear? Pope Francis confirmed on Palm Sunday that he's planning to be in Brazil for World Youth Day. The Diocese of Des Moines has organized a once-in-a-lifetime pilgrimage to World Youth Day in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The pilgrim group is forming now and is open to young adults (18 and older). Join Bishop Pates, seminarians of the diocese and other young adults this July 16-30 for World Youth Day. Registration space is limited. For more information and registration materials, contact Jason Kurth at 515-237-5061 or email jkurth@dmdiocese.org.

Bishop Pates, in his role as chair of the U.S. bishops' Committee on International Justice and Peace, joined Stockton Bishop Stephen Blaire, who heads the U.S. bishops' Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development in urging Congress to address the moral and human dimensions of the federal budget and protect the poor.

"The moral measure of this budget debate is not which party wins or which powerful interests prevail, but rather how those who are jobless, hungry, homeless or poor are treated," the bishops said in a March 18 letter to Congress. "Their voices are too often missing, but they have the most compelling moral claim on our consciences and our common resources. The bishops stand ready to work with leaders of both parties for a budget that reduces future deficits, protects poor and vulnerable people, advances the common good and promotes human life and dignity."

Read the whole letter here.

Statement of Bishop Richard Pates on the occasion of the election of Pope Francis: The Diocese of Des Moines joins the Church and the world in jubiliation with the election of Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio who has taken the name of Pope Francis I. Pope Francis has served as Archbishop of Buenos Aires since 1998. His election signals the universality of the Church as an Argentinian and South American now follows in succession of a Polish and then German Pope. Pope Francis studied chemistry before entering the seminary. He thus brings the background of a scientist to bear molding that interest with an Ignation spirituality and an effective pastoral background as an Archbishop. The Holy Father's personal history and first impressions as Pope convey that of a person gifted intellectually blended with the simplicity and spirit of Jesus. His election, I believe, is providential for our times and will support the deepest values of our humanity. The Diocese of Des Moines pledges support and prayer for the new Pope. We pray that his years as Pope will be abundantly blessed for the benefit of all. 

Declaración del Obispo Richard Pates por motivo de la elección del Papa Francisco: La Diócesis de Des Moines se une al júbilo de la Iglesia y el Mundo por la elección de Cardenal Jorge Mario Bergoglio quien ha sido nombrado Papa Francisco I. El Papa Francisco ha servido como Arzobispo de Buenos Aires desde 1998. Su elección señala la universalidad de la Iglesia siendo argentino y sudamericano ahora sigue en sucessión al Papa de Polonia y ahora al Papa de Alemania. El Papa Francisco estudio química antes de antrar al seminario. El entonces trae el respaldo del estudio científico, y de esa manera lo hizo moldear su interés con una espiritualidad ignaciana y una historia de una pastoral eficaz como Arzobispo. La historia personal del Santo Padre y la primera impresión como Papa se nos presenta como una persona con talento intelectual combinado en la simplicidad y el Espíritu de Jesús. Su elección, yo creo, es providencial para nuestros tiempos y apoyara los profundos valores de nuestra humanidad.

The Diocese of Des Moines and parish Respect Life Committees are sponsoring a day of healing called "Life is Precious" on March 16 at Christ the King Church on Des Moines south side. The day will focus on coping with grief of a pregnancy loss with discussions focusing on forgiveness, healing and welcoming a baby with Down syndrome. Speakers include Kris Gaspari, of Rachel's Vineyard post-abortion ministry, Ann Valdez of Mercy Perinatal Hospice and Tricia Pietig of Gigi's Playhouse. The day begins at 9 a.m. with prayer by Msgr. Frank Bognanno and concludes with 5 p.m. Mass. Join men and women for this day of healing and learn of local ministries avaialble to help families who have lost their child prematurely and those who find themselves expecting the unexpected. For more information or to RSVP, please contact Jo Chafen at 515-243-7653 or jchafen@dmdiocese.org.

Bishop Richard Pates, in his role as chair of the U.S. bishops' Committee on International Justice and Peace, was among 100 Christian leaders to sign a Feb. 25 letter to President Obama and leaders of Congress "affirming the governemnt's responsibility concerning poor people."  The letter further said, "Assuring governemnt's obligation to advance the common good, ensure fairness and defend the most vulnerable is good religion and good politics." The letter was sent on behalf of the ecumentical Circle of Protection coalition.

Read the full letter here.

The past two weeks since Pope Benedict XVI's announcement that he would resign have been filled with excitement, gratitude for the pope's ministry, and no shortage of questions. We've been working on a papal transition web page with some of the info, and here are a few more thoughts:

1. What will Benedict XVI be called after he resigns? His Holiness Benedict XVI, Pope-emeritus (more info)

2. What will he wear? He will retain the white cassock but will give up the shoes and ring. (more info)

3. What about the pope's ring? It will be destroyed, according to tradition.  (more info)

4. Where will he live? He will go to the papal summer residence, Castel Gandolfo, for a couple of months. Then, he will retire to a monastery within the walls of the Vatican City. (more info)

5. How will his resignation be marked? Some places will ring bells--this is not a toll of mourning but more like a festive peal or ringing in gratitude for the pope's ministry. Special Masses may also be offered for Pope Benedict XVI but should conclude before 8:00 p.m. Rome time (1:00 p.m. Central Standard Time) on Thursday, February 28. 

6. How will the prayer of the Church change after he resigns? We will enter a period called the sede vacante ("vacant see") or the interregnum ("between reigns"). It will begin after 8:00 p.m. Rome time and last until the new pope accepts his election by the Cardinal electors. Regarding the prayers, check the USCCB resources (see pages 12 and following). Special Masses may again be offered (Bishop Pates will preside at the 12:10 p.m. Mass at the Cathedral on March 6, for the election of a pope.). If you're praying on your own or at home with a group, check out the prayers we have on our Papal Transition web page. In the Eucharistic Prayers, the clause for the pope is simply omitted until a new pope is elected. 

7. What happens when a new pope is elected? Perhaps again the bells in the churches should ring! When he is elected, there is a process which he and the cardinals follow, wherein he accepts the election, announces his name, and then is introduced to the world. follows. Then, some days later, he will be installed in a liturgy in St. Peter's Square, where he will receive the pallium and the ring.  Click here to read Pope Benedict XVI's homily from that Mass on 24 April 2005. 

Here is a note that is going out to priests and deacons of the Diocese today: 

 

Dear Reverend Fathers and Deacons of the Diocese of Des Moines,

 

After 1:00 p.m. Central Standard Time (8:00 p.m. Rome time), on Thursday, February 28, 2013, our Holy Father Pope Benedict XVI will no longer hold the office of Supreme Pontiff of the Universal Church, and the See of Peter will be vacant.

 

As you know, Bishop Pates has encouraged parishes to make use of the specific Mass formularies available during this time of transition. To that end, on Thursday, February 28, the 12:10 p.m. Mass at the Cathedral of St. Ambrose will be offered “For the Pope,” (Masses for Various Needs and Occasions #2). The Eucharistic Prayer will be, as suggested by the USCCB materials, Eucharistic Prayer for Various Needs and Occasions #1: The Church on the Path of Unity. Following the Mass, the Cathedral bell will ring until after 1:00 p.m., in gratitude for the Petrine ministry of Pope Benedict XVI.

 

I invite you to consider uniting in that spirit for your morning and noon Masses (if they conclude by 1:00 p.m.). If you have bells, you might ring them in festive fashion around or immediately after 1:00 p.m. Catholic Churches around the world and closer to home will be doing this. Use the Mass “For a Pope,” complete with white vestments. The Lectionary readings remain those for the Lenten weekday.

 

After 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, the Church will enter a time of prayer for the Church and the electors, the sede vacante or interregnum (“vacant see” or “between reigns”). During this time, consult the USCCB guide to see how to adjust Eucharistic Prayers. Put simply, the petitions for the Holy Father are omitted, but the materials have conveniently outlined how this is to be done. The Mass formulary “For the Election of a Pope” may be of interest sometime during the sede vacante, when the liturgical calendar allows (Lenten weekdays). After the new pope is elected, if the liturgical calendar allows, another Mass “For the Pope” may be offered.

 

The Worship Office has a web page with some information on the papal transition that you might consider sharing, if you find it helpful. Visit www.dmdiocese.org/papaltransition.cfm for prayers and other information. I’ve written a blog post with some information on this intriguing time in the life of our Church. Visit http://blog.dmdiocese.org/index.cfm?category=1. The USCCB has put together a very informative question and answer sheet on the papal transition that you might find helpful.

 

Blessings to each of you and your parish communities this season of Lent. 

 

In peace, 

Kyle Lechtenberg

Wondering where you can get some good fish and dining companions this Friday during Lent? Click here to find a list of fish fry dinners in the Diocese of Des Moines. Many have alternatives such as cheese pizza or macaroni and cheese.

Bishop Richard Pates, in his role as chair of the U.S. bishops' Committee on International Justice and Peace,  sent a letter Feb. 15 to U.S. Reps. Frank Wolf and Anna Eshoo thanking them for their sponsorship of HR 301, a bill to establish a special envoy to promote religious freedom of religious minorities in the Near East and South Central Asia. "The bishops have long been concerned over the plight of religious minorities, particularly Christian communities in countries such as Iraq, Syria, Egypt, India and Pakistan, many of whom have lived for centuries side by side with those of other faiths, but now find themselves coming under increased attack and harassment," he wrote. Bishop Pates concluded: "The Catholic Church views protection of religious freedom as a 'cornerstone of the structure of human rights' since it is rooted in the dignity of the human person."

Congratulations to Father Paul Monahan, who will be honored for his yeras of serve in education with the Heritage Award presented by Alegent Creighton Health Mercy Hospital in Council Bluffs. He will receive the honor at an event at the Mid-America Center on March 23. After his ordination, Father Paul taught at Dowling Catholic High School while working on his postgraduate degree in guidance and school adminsitration. He served at St. Albert High School as a teacher and principal. A priest for over 50 years, Father Paul is now retired yet continues to assist where he can.

Bishop Richard Pates will celebrate a Mass today at 12:10 p.m. at St. Ambrose Cathedral in celebration of the Holy Father's service to the Church and for his health and well-being. Bishop will celebrate Mass on Wednesday, March 6 at 12:10 p.m. at the cathedral for the cardinal electors who will be electing the next Holy Father.

The Rally for Life will be today at the Iowa State Capitol beginning with lobbying training at 1 p.m. in room 102. Lobbying will be from 1:30-3 pm and the rally begins at 3 p.m. featuring keynote speaker Dan McConchie,  of Americans United for Life. The event is cosponsored by the Council fo Catholic Women, Iowa Catholic Conference, Iowa Right to Life, Iowans for LIFE, Knights of Columbuis, Lawyers for Life, Patriots for Christ, Teen Pact and The Family Leader.

Today, Friday, is the first Friday of the Lenten season. Catholics age 14 and older abstain from meat on all Friday of Lent plus Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. The diocese is offering several opportunities during this Lenten season. First, parishes and schools are encouraged to participate in Operation Rice Bowl, now called CRS Rice Bowl. The Rice Bowl helps us live in solidarity with the poor and vulnerable around the world. Second, the 17 schools in the Diocese of Des Moines are undertaking a special project during Lent to raise funds in support of Holy Ghost Juniorate, a high school seminary in Nigeria. The school is in great need of educational resources. Our diocese is blessed by the minsiterial services of four Holy Spirit priests from Nigera. Third, Bishop Richard Pates encourages parishioners to take advantage of small faith-sharing groups focusin gon the 50th anniversary of the Second Vatican Council. The groups are being organized in conjunction with the Year of Faith being commemorated throughotu the Catholic Church this year. On behalf of the diocese, theologian Dr. Cheryl Fournier has produced a book called "Walking by Faith: Vatican Council II" that provides a look at the opening speech of Blessed John XXIII as well as excerpts of four documents, called constitutions, that came from the council. Contact your parish for more informatino about these three Lenten opportunities.

Bishop Richard Pates issued the following statement regarding the retirement of Pope Benedict XVI.  Scroll down to see the statement in Spanish.

“The totally unexpected yet courageous decision of Pope Benedict XVI to retire at the end of February is clear testimony of his commitment to generous service as long as he is able for the well-being of the Catholic Church. Surely, he has been attentive to the voice of God speaking to him in prayer.

“When he was first elected pope, a Protestant theologian commented to me: ‘The Catholic Church now has at its helm a first class theologian.’ In his nearly eight years as pope, Benedict XVI has exercised this capacity as theologian with writings and talks that will provide understanding and inspiration for centuries to come. His pastoral heart also emerged on the world stage generating hope and consolation.

“Personally, I had the great privilege to become acquainted with Cardinal Ratzinger when his itinerary on his first personal trip to the United States included three days in St. Paul, Minnesota on a visit to St. John Vianney College Seminary and the University of St. Thomas. Since his election as pope, I have met him three times, most recently last spring during the ad limina visit of the bishops of Region 9 of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. The pope is always personally attentive, friendly and gracious.

“Our prayers now turn to the College of Cardinals as they prepare to elect Benedict XVI’s  successor. May they experience the powerful guidance of the Holy Spirit in the process of electing the successor of Peter the Apostle.”

En Espanol

“En una decisión completamente inesperada del Papa Benedicto XVI, pero aun así valerosa, respecto a retirarse al final de febrero es un claro testimonio de su compromiso a servir con generosidad al bienestar de la Iglesia Católica mientras le sea posible.  Seguramente él ha estado atento a la voz de Dios que le habla por medio de la oración.”

“Recién fue electo como papa, un teólogo Protestante me comentó: ‘Ahora está a cargo de La Iglesia Católica un teólogo de primera.’  En sus casi ocho años como papa, Benedicto XVI ha ejercido sus habilidades de teólogo por medio de escritos y pláticas que serán fuente de entendimiento e inspiración por muchos siglos a futuro.  Su corazón pastoral también emergió en el escenario mundial generando esperanza y consuelo.”

“Tuve el gran privilegio personal de conocer al Cardenal Ratzinger cuando su itinerario de su primer viaje personal a los Estados Unidos incluía tres días en St. Paul, Minnesota en una visita al Seminario St. John Vianney en la Universidad de St. Thomas. Desde su elección como papa, me reuní con él en tres ocasiones, la más reciente en mi visita ad limina la primavera pasada junto con los obispos de la Región 9 de la Conferencia de Obispos Católicos de los Estados Unidos.  El papa siempre se mostró personalmente atento, amigable y afable.

“Hagamos ahora oración por el Colegio de Cardenales conforme se preparan para elegir al sucesor de Benedicto XVI.  Que puedan vivir la poderosa guía del Espíritu Santo en el proceso de elegir al sucesor del Apóstol Pedro.”

Citing health concerns, the Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI, who is 85, announced this morning that he will resign effective Feb. 28. "After having repeatedly examined my conscience before God, I have come to the certainty that my strengths, due to an advanced age, are no longer suited to an adequate exercise of the Petrine ministry," he reportedly said to cardinals who gathered with him to talk about the canonization of new saints.  Pope Benedict was elected in April, 2005, at age 78, is the first to step down in nearly 600 years. The College of Cardinals will make plans to hold a conclave when they will elect a new pope.

Bishop Richard Pates issued the following statement on the most recent proposals on the HHS mandate.

Cardinal Timothy Dolan's statement on the most recent revisions of the HHS mandate highlights continuing deficiencies from the Catholic Church's perspective.

1. The narrow understanding of a religious ministry.
2. Continuing to compel church ministries such as Catholic education, healthcare ministries and Catholic charities to fund and facilitate services such as contraceptives, including abortion inducing drugs and sterilization that violate Catholic teaching.
3. Disregard for conscience rights of for-profit business owners.

The Catholic Church will continue to dialogue with the Obama Administration in trying to achieve a solution that fulfills its pledge for such a solution on this issue. At the same time, remedies will continue to be pursued in the courts and legislative bodies. 

Bishop Richard Pates, in his role as chair of the U.S. bishops' Committee on International Justice and Peace, introduced himself to the new Secretary of State, John Kerry. In the letter dated Feb. 6, Bishop Pates outlined the priorities of the U.S. bishops in countries abroad. "We welcome and appreciate our continuing dialogue with  you and your department on these and other matters of mutual concern," wrote Bishop Pates. "We wish you every blessing and success as you undertake your important responsibilities." Read the full letter here.

Welcome to Luis Salinas Mendoza, of Osceola, who began this week as the first coordinator of Hispanic Youth Ministry for the diocese. Luis will be working to identify and form adult Hispanic youth ministers. He'll also provide resources and guidance regarding Hispanic youth ministry to diocesan departments particularly Evangelization & Catechesis, Youth Ministry and Vocations to assist them in becoming more culturally sensitive and inclusive in their planning and activities.

Congratulations to five individuals who received the Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice papal honor on Sunday at St. Ambrose Cathedral. Those who were presented the honor are: Lois and Jim Behrens (right), Michael Hoffman and Mary (below) and R.W. Nelson.

During the liturgy, Bishop Pates said these five individuals are great role models and help raise the standard of sacrifice and generosity. They have each contributed in many ways to the diocese, in particular to Holy Family School in Des Moines, which serves children of many different cultures.

R.W. Nelson at right

All four Iowa bishops are members of the Knights of Columbus have issued letters of support and an invitation to men ages 18 and older to prayerfully consider joining the organization. Each parish will individually determine how to disseminate the letter from their bishop.

The Knights of Columbus was formed 130 years ago with the purpose of defending their country, their families and their faith. Today, the Knights of Columbus continue the mission of their founder, Venerable Servant of God Father Michael J. McGivney, to be the bearers of Christ in the world. the Knights of Columbus have been called "the strong right arm of the Church" and have been praised by popes, presidents and other world leaders for support of the Church, programs of evangelization, Catholic education, civic involvement and aid to those in need.

For more information on the Knights of Columbus, click here for the national organization's website and here for the Iowa Knights of Columbus website.

This is Catholic Schools Week! Schools within the Diocese of Des Moines are celebrating with a variety of activities and open houses. Check here for a list of schools and their open house schedules. Tune in to Bishop Richard Pates' radio show "In the Heartland With Bishop Pates" this Friday. Bishop will talk with several educators about Catholic schools in our diocese and nationwide. His show airs on Iowa Catholic Radio and Spirit Catholic Radio Network.

This weekend there will be a special collection in parishes for Project HOPE (Help Our Parents Educate). This is a scholarship program based on financial need that began 32 years ago through the generosity of our parishioners. Project HOPE has provided access to Catholic education to more than 8,000 students. Last year alone, more than $60,000 was raised for Project HOPE. It allowed the diocese to provide an average of $271 to 214 students from families with the greatest need.

There are many people who desire a Catholic education for their child but due to the current state of the economy, need assistance with tuition. We would like to be able to help more families. The average cost to families for Catholic elementary school tuition is about $2,510 per student. Please support Project HOPE so all children who desire a Catholic education have the opportunity. You can make a contribution online by clicking here.

You have to check out this story in the January edition of The Catholic Mirror. Preschooler Connor Andres, of Our Lady's Immaculate Heart Parish in Ankeny, saw TV coverage of Hurricane Sandy and the aftermath. "Mom, they need our help," he said. So his mother, Terri Andres, helped her son, a student at the parish's Little Learners Preschool, launch a fundraiser called "Little Hands, Big Hearts." Find out how Connor and his friends, and eventually the whole parish, raised funds. Learn how much they raised and what it meant to those who received that gift in this month's edition of The Catholic Mirror.

During his recent visit to Nigeria, Bishop Richard Pates visited a high school minor seminay in a city called Ihiala. There, he found extreme poverty. The seminary's walls and roof were dilapidated and there were very few windows. Few desks, chairs or books were available. With no constant power supply, electricity was spotty. Sewage, water and drainage systems all needed to be reconstructed.

Though the students at the seminary learned under extreme conditions, Bishop Pates found the faith and call to the priesthood very much alive in the community and the country. He ordained 10 priests for the Spiritan religious community and 15 to the transitional diaconate during his visit.

Bishop has asked Des Moines diocesan schools and religious education programs to raise funds for the seminary students. They will begin this effort during Lent. Watch in your local parish for opportunities to which you can contribute to help the students at the seminary in Nigeria. Or, you are invited to make a donation to the effort by contacting Dr. Luvern Gubbels, diocesan schools superintendent, at lgubbels@dmdiocese.org or 515-237-5013.

Did you know we have someone right here in the Des Moines diocese who assisted at the Second Vatican Council? Monsignor Larry Beeson was there, assisting our very own Bishop Edward C. Daly, who served at the landmark council. Hear what Msgr. Beeson has to say about it on Saturday, Jan. 26 as the diocese continues its celebration of the Year of Faith with an in-depth look at Vatican II. Join us from 9-2:30 p.m. In addition to hearing Msgr. Beeson share his experience, we'll also hear Matthew Halbach, director of the St. Joseph Eudcation Center in West Des Moines. He'll explain for us the framework of Vatican II and its implications for today. Lunch will be provided so make sure you let us know if you're coming. you can RSVP by sending a quick note to Sherri Simmer at ssimmer@dmdiocese.org.

A Youth 2000 retreat sponsored by All Saints Church in Des Moines will be March 1-3 at Dowling Catholic High School in West Des Moines. This is a Eucharistic retreat for all high school youth as well as college students. The retreat will be directed by the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal.

The retreat was held in Des Moines metro area for eight years between 2001-2008. for more informaiton, check out the website youthretreatdsm.org.

Two central Minnesota Catholic colleges are presenting a program of opera and dance tonight at 7:30 p.m. at the Temple for Performing Arts' Grand Hall in Des Moines. The College of St. Benedict and St. John's University Symphony Orchestra will present the program for free, though free-will donations will be accepted.

Mark your calendar for the annual Mass for Life slated to be celebrated on Tuesday, Jan. 22 at 6 p.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Church in West Des Moines. Bishop Richard Pates will be presiding. Diocesan priests and deacons are invited to concelebrate. As we mark the 40th anniversary of the Roe v Wade decision, pray with us for a culture of life. The Mass is sponsored by Catholic Charities Social Justice Consortium.

During a recent homily about Advent being a time of preparation, Msgr. Stephen Orr happened to mention that there are those practical preparations, too, like baking cookies. And when you do, he told his parishioners, save three for Father. The following weekend, his parishioners at Our Lady's Immaculate Heart in Ankeny surprised him with a large basket filled with baggies -- each containing three cookies.

"I will sure look like the Cookie Monster before long after eating all those wonderful cookies you brought last weekend!" he said in a weekly note to parishioners. "What an amazing variety. While I will enjoy many of them and fill my freezer for enjoyment for weeks to come, I hope you don't mind if I share them as well. As we remember some of our families most in need this Christmas time, they will find a few little 'cookie treats' in their packages. In that way, we will spread the joy!"

The Catholic Pastoral Center is closed today, Thursday Dec. 20, due to blizzard conditions. This includes Bishop Richard Pates's office, Catholic Charities and diocesan offices.

Last week, Bishop Stephen Blaire, chair of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops' Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development and Bishop Richard Pates, in his role as chair of the Committee on International Justice and Peace, wrote to Congress calling on it to avoid the "fiscal cliff" with a bipartisan and balanced agreement that raises adequate revenue and protects programs that serve families living in poverty. You can read the letter here. The letter explains our Church's budget advocacy in light of Catholic teaching on taxation and the economy.

And this week, on Dec. 18, Bishop Pates sent a letter to National Security Advisory Thomas Donilon expressing concern about Iran and nuclear weapons. Bishop Pates said, "A diplomatic solution is preferable to military action which could have unpredictable and dramatic repercussions for the region."  Check out the letter here.

Franciscan Father Tom Kunnel, pastor of St. Mary Parish in Red Oak and St. Patrick Parish in Imogene, recently wrote a column for his parish bulletins that addressed the Mayan calendar's claim that the world will end this Friday. He explains the end-of-the-world questions using a Catholic perspective.

Will the world end on Dec. 21, 2012?

By Father Tom Kunnel, TOR

On Dec. 21, the Mayan calendar comes to an end and so, some fear, do we. Little is known of the Mayans -- a Central American civiliation skilled in mathematics and astronomy -- but many believe this ancient culture had secret knowledge that enabled them to predict when the world would end. The question we need to ask is, will the world end on Dec. 21?

The foundation of our Christian life is always focused towards our ultimate end, the escatological life; life ordained to be with our Lord. Life with God is continual and ongoing, being both here on earth and continuing on to life in heaven. So the Bible always refers both to life and eternal life -- the life we have here on earth and eternal life in heaven with the Lord. We must not forget that for us Christians, the "eschaton" is the final event. This final event is to be understood not only as a future goal, but as a reality which has already begun with the historical coming of Christ. His passion, death and resurrection are the supreme events in the history of humanity, the true foundation of Christianity, as well as the uniqueness of our religion. This fundamental foundation of Christianity has now entered into its final phase, making a qualitative leap into the final event, eternal life. The horizon of a new relationship with God is unfolding for humanity, marked by the great offer of salvation made to the fallen world in Christ. 

Christ said, "The hour is coming, and now is, when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God and those who hear will live," (Jn 5:25). The resurrection of the dead expected at the end of time already receives its first decisive realization in the spiritual resurrection of our soul when our soul, while we are living, experiences the darkness, understands the consequences of darkness of the soul, and leaves its darkness behind to enter into a spiritual resurrection, the primary task of the works of Salvation. The theologian calls this proceess "conversion"' consisting of new life given by the risen Christ as the fruit of his redemptive work. Mary Magdalene was the first disciple to experience this immediately after the resurrection. It is a mystery of rebirth by water and the Holy Spirit which is deeply marked as the sign of hope for the humanity of the present, and of the future. The effectiveness of the redemption at the moment is shown only by those people who totally accept this gift of God, and who in turn radiate and illuminate the world. Precisely, Christ is addressing us, his disciples, "to be the light of the world and the salt of the earth."

The twofold, present and future, dimension of the redemptive works of Christ is explained very clearly in his eschatalogical discourse just before the paschal drama of Calvary as he predicted. "They will see the Son of Man coming in clouds with great power and glory. And then he will send out the angels and gather his elect from the four winds, from the end of the earth to the end of the sky." (Mk. 13:26-27).

The biblical understanding of clouds signifies a theophany; it indicates that the second coming of the Son of Man will not take place in the weakness of flesh, like a babe in the manger, but in divine power. The coming in clouds with great power and glory suggests the ultimate future that will bring the history of humanity to an end. During the trial before the crucifixion, Christ once again repeats the eschatological prophecy, formulating it in terms of an imminent event: "I tell you, from now on you will see the Son of Man seated at the right hand of the power and coming on the clouds of heaven," (Mt. 26:64). 

Now we can understand and grasp well the dynamic sense of Christian eschatology as a historical process which has already begun in our midst and is moving toward its fullness. At the end of all things, there will be a great tribulation, "The sun will be darkened, the moon will not give its light, and the stars will fall from the sky, and the power of the heaven will be shaken," (Mt. 24:29). This eschatological discourse expresses the precariousness of the world and the sovereign of power of Christ. It will be a complete takeover and moving of everything into the power of Christ, in whose hands has been placed the destiny of humanity. It will likely not happen on Dec. 21, 2012 as the media and Hollywood predicts; surely history advances towards its goal, but Christ  has not specified any chronological dates. Attemps to predict the end of the world are therefore deceptive and misleading. Christ has assured us the end will not come before his saving work has reached a universal dimension through the preaching of the gospel. Remember these words of Christ: "And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached thorughout the world as a witness to all nations, and then the end will come." (Mt 24:14).

The evangelization of the world by preaching of the gospel involves the profound transformation of the human person under the influence of Christ's grace. According to St. Paul, the end and the goal of history lies in the Father's plan to "unite all things in Him, (Christ) things in heaven and things on earth," (Eph. 1:10). Christ is the center of the universe who draws all people to himself to grant them an abundance of grace and eternal life. Christ is a divine judge with a human heart, a judge who wants to give life. Only unrepentance and undue attachment to evil can prevent him from offering these gifts of eternal life, for which he did not hesitate to face death.

No reindeer or snowmen will be mentioned this week on Iowa Catholic Radio. The Catholic radio station serving central Iowa will play only Christmas hymns, carols, family traditions, Christmas greetings, prayers and worship starting today through Christmas Day. Focus on the reason for the season by tuning in to Iowa Catholic Radio this Christmas season at 1150 AM, 88.5 FM or 94.5 FM.

Bishop Richard Pates issued the following statement on the school tragedy in Connecticut on Friday.

"I share the overwhelming shock and sadness of all at the inexplicable death rampage at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut on Friday morning. Our heartfelt prayers go out to the victims and to their families, especially the parents of children either killed or injured as they come to grips with this senseless tragedy. May they know that we stand in solidarity with them at this time. I ask all of the Diocese of Des Moines' parishes to incorporate special prayers in their liturgies of the Third Sunday of Advent. Despite the huge shadows and overwhelming grief, we know that Emmanuel - God with us, is present even in these darkest of moments."

A documentary called "First Freedom: The Fight for Religious Liberty" will air on Iowa Public Television on Tuesday, Dec. 18. The documentary by filmmaker Lee Groberg focuses on the origin of the freedom in the years 1630-1836. A Catholic News Service reviewer said, "Groberg manages to craft a valuable overview of complex developments that viewers of all faiths will likely appreciate." Here is a link to IPTV for more information.

Iowa Catholic Radio wants to record and air your holiday greetings for family, friends, coworkers, priests, military and others. Call 515-282-PRAY (7729) and leave a 10-20 second Christmas greeting. Then tune in to 1150 AM, 88.5 FM or 94.5 FM in central Iowa to hear your greeting and those of others throughout the Christmas season.

By Mayra Moriel de Bañuelos

Coordinator of Hispanic Ministry

During the first days of Advent, the Latino community is busy preparing the celebration of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Dec. 3 marks the beginning of the Guadalupe novena, which continues through the feast day, which is tomorrow, Dec. 12. On Dec. 16, we mark the beginning of a new novena, known as the Posadas. These are great opportunities to celebrate Advent wtih the kids and get them involved in these special celebrations.

Back in my neighborhood, the Posadas had a great significance as we worked as a community preparing for the birth of Jesus. Each year, we selected nine homes to serve as host, one for each day of the novena. The children loved dressing up for the occasion, whether as Joseph, Mary or even as angels and shepherds. We would walk on the streets from house to house begging for shelter, in remembrance of Mary and Joseph's journey when they arrived in Bethlehem. Finally, the house selected for that day to be host would welcome us in for a feast that started with a rosary followed by the traditional pinata and food typical of the Christmas season: tamales, fruit punch and atole (a corn-based drink). We would do that every day for nine days! 

The symbols of the celebrations are still very signficant. The piñata symbolizes the destruction of sin. A traditional piñata has seven cones representing the seven capital sins. The candy and goodies inside the piñata represent God's gifts to those who fight and defeat sin.

Christmas Eve on Dec. 24 is the last Posada and this one is celebrated as a family. After a large, late dinner when the clock hits midnight, the family will sing to the newborn baby Jesus. The youngest members of the family will carry around a figure baby Jesus for each of the attendees to kiss. Then the whole family lulls the baby to sleep. There is prayer and offering of gifts. We then go to bed knowing that Baby Jesus will leave a gift for us in the morning.

As with anything, traditions vary from country to country and even from different regions within countries. The common thing among all these is Jesus as the center of all celebrations, whether in his mother's womb in the Guadalupe novena, looking for a place to stay in the Posadas or putting the newborn to sleep. Jesus is certainly the reason for the season.

You know the station as KWKY Catholic Radio. Reflecting its growth in central Iowa, the station now known as Iowa Catholic Radio will be holding a care-a-thon, or pledge drive, this week, inviting listeners to support its important work. Iowa Catholic Radio invites you to listen, pray for the station and financially support its evangelization efforts. This is the station that broadcasts live important diocesan liturgies -- like the diaconate ordination of three young men --  for all to hear and broadcasts major community events like the Dowling Catholic Pancake Breakfast. Where else can you hear retired Bishop Joseph Charron and Bishop Richard Pates every week? What other station broadcasts from a Catholic parish or school every weekday? Iowa Catholic Radio is growing, having acquired two FM stations this fall to broaden its reach. You can hear Catholic programming 24/7 at 1150 AM, 88.5 FM and 94.5 FM. Tune in to the care-a-thon starting today and support your Catholic radio station by calling 515-282-PRAY (7729).

Catholic Relief Services President Dr. Carolyn Woo will be the guest on the radio show "In the Heartland With Bishop Pates" tomorrow at 10 a.m. Also a guest on the show will be Teresa Dunbar, a leader on the local CRS Global Advocacy Team.

Before joining CRS, Dr. Woo served as the dean of the business school at the University of Notre Dame. She had served on the CRS board of directors from 2004-2010. She was born and raised in Hong Kong, educated by the Maryknoll Sisters and immigrated to the United States to attend college at Purdue University in Indiana, where she earned her doctorate.

Tune in to Bishop's radio show on the Spirit Catholic Radio Network 102.7 FM in western Iowa and Nebraska and Iowa Catholic Radio at 1150 AM, 88.5 FM and 94.5 FM in central Iowa.

Last year, we shared with you the story of Dina Manfredini, then 114 and the oldest person in her parish and the state. Dina is now the oldest person in the world at age 115, according to the Gerontology Research Group. Here is the blog post we ran last year on Dina.

In his role as chair of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops' Committee on International Justice and Peace,  Bishop Richard Pates encouraged our senators to maintain aid to Palestinians. "Assistance to Palestinians, already heavily conditioned, is essential for humanitarian purposes and for building capacity for a future Palestinian state," he wrote. "Cutting aid will only harm the peace process." The U.S. bishops support a two-state solution for peace. Read the whole letter here.

Des Moines police apologized to Deacon Quan Tong, who serves the St. Peter Vietnamese Catholic Community, after a computer mistake resulted in him spending time at the Polk County Jail. Here is the story in The Des Moines Register.

Join Catholic Charities for a number of wekeend events aimed to raise awareness of the plight of homeless families and build awareness about poverty. Friday from 508 p.m. is a fundraising reception at 601 Grand Ave. in Des Moines. Call 515-237-5078 for more information. Saturday is a poverty simulation that gives people a hands-on experience of what it's like to live in poverty. The simulation runs from 9 a.m. - noon. Register at CatholicCharitiesDM.org. And Sunday is the musical open house from 1-5 p.m. at 601 Grand Ave. Coe see the live nativity (1-3 p.m.), see a huge display of nativity scenes, many from around the world, hear Bishop Richard Pates and retired Bishop Joseph Charron read the Chrsitmas story and enjoy local choir performancees. Admission is a gift of a personal care item or cash donation. Go to CatholicCharitiesDM.org for a list of choirs and times.

Bishop Pates recently visited the School of Mary-Montessori, an independent educational effort that offers an early childhood program and an elementary program for homeschooled children. The School of Mary-Montessori operates out of the former St. Boniface Church in Waukee.  The school incorporates Catechesis of the Good Shepherd in the full Montessori academic program. The school is available for children ages 3-6 years old and has a two-day-per-week elementary program for children in grades 1-6, benefiting homeschooling families. For more information, contact schoolofmarymontessori@gmail.com.

Attention all parishes and Catholic schools: The latest diocesan directory is now available. Every three years, the Diocese of Des Moines, prints a Diocesan Directory with contact information for parishes, schools, groups and more. The latest one is printed and ready for you. Contact Sandy at 515-237-5046 or email her at sriesberg@dmdiocese.org to get your copy. The Diocesan Directory is also available online at dmdiocese.org, click About Us. The online directory is updated frequently.

On Thursday, Father David Fleming, pastor of St. Patrick Church and chaplain of St. Albert Catholic Schools in Council Bluffs, will become pastor of St. Pius X Church in Urbandale. Father Glen Wilwerding, who is pastor of St. Bernard in Osceola, St. Patrick in Grand River and St. Joseph in Mt. Ayr, will become pastor of St. Patrick Church in Council Bluffs.

Bishop Richard Pates -- in his role as chair of the U.S. bishops' Committee on International Justice and Peace, sent a letter to Secretary of State Hillary Clinton today in which he says both Palestinians and Israelis have undermined the possibility of a two-state solution in recent actions and policies. Check out the full story here.

Bishop Richard Pates penned a blog post for the U.S. Conference of Catholic bishops in celebration of the Year of Faith and the 50th anniversary of Vatican II. In his blog post, he writes about "Gaudium et Spes" (Joy and Hope) which addressed peace, war and justice.

"There is a profound link between peace and justice," Bishop Pates wrote. "War robs the world of the resources to address poverty, and poverty and injustice increase violence. In the poignant words of the Council, "the arms race is an utterly treacherous trap for humanity, and one which injures the poor to an intolerable degree.' 'Gaudium et Spes' spurred a dramatic commitment to justice and peace among Catholics, a moral imperative that continues today."

Bishop Richard Pates is encouraging a special collection this weekend in parishes for Hurricane Sandy relief. He said: "As we witnessed through the images that flooded the media this past week, thousands upon thousands of our firends in the Northeast suffered both physical injury as well as loss and destruction of property and prized possessions. In response to the critical need of the victims of this natural tragedy, the Diocese of Des Moines is accepting donations, which will be quickly forwarded to Catholic Charities USA to assist those severely affected by this disaster." Gifts can be made online or sent to Hurricane Relief Fund, Diocese of Des Moines, 601 Grand Ave., Des Moines, IA 50309.

As Election Day approaches, you may be wondering what Bishop Richard Pates has said about the election, the political parties or the candidates. Here is an article he penned that was printed in "America" magazine last August. Called "In This Together: How Catholics can overcome partisan divisions," the article says, "Today, the Church can evangelize by working among people with various perspectives to counter the excesses of ideology. It might often make people angry, but it also would make the Catholic voice more difficult to ignore, elevating it above mere partisan agendas. It would give the Church renewed credibiltiy as a moral voice and force in the culture. In the words of 'Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship,' 'We are called to bring together our principles and our political choices, our values and our votes, to help build a better world.' "

Bishop Pates also addressed the election in his September and October columns in The Catholic Mirror, which you can find here.

This weekend is the big Youth Rally at the St. Thomas More Center in Panora. Middle school students will gather on Saturday and high school students on Sunday. Popular youth speaker Chris Stefanick has a special gift for touching young people's hearts and speaking about the love of God in a way that connects with real life experience. For more information, go to stmcenter.com and click on Youth Ministry.

The Diocese of Des Moines officially launches the Year of Faith on Tuesday with a focus on the Eucharist, the source and summit of our Christian lives. Benedictine Abbot Marcel Rooney, retired abbot primate for the worldwide Benedictine order and former abbot of Conception Abbey, will present an evening of conversation, prayer and fellowship at St. Francis of Assisi parish in West Des Moines. The evening begins with a dessert and coffee social at 6:30 p.m. followed by the abbot's presentation at 7 p.m. All are invited. Childcare will be available.

Welcome our new multimedia journalist Kelly Mescher Collins, of St. Francis Parish in West Des Moines. Kelly earned her undergraduate degree at Iowa State University and her master's degree at the University of Iowa. She has worked in journalism, marketing and public relations, mostly with agriculture. Kelly will produce stories for The Catholic Mirror and produce bishop's weekly radio show. She grew up in a large Catholic family on a farm near Carroll in the Diocese of Sioux City. She graduated from Kuemper Catholic High School and was active in St. Augustine Parish in Halbur. Contact Kelly with story ideas or your advetising needs.

This past Saturday, Bishop Richard Pates delivered the keynote address to the Iowa Institute for Social Action entitled "Threats to World Peace and the Church's Response." In his talk, Bishop covered specifically the areas of Israel-Palestine, Afghanistan-Pakistan, the Democratic Republic of the congo and latin America. He also offered the Church's perspective on what peace really means. "The Church teaches that peace doe snot consist simply in the absence of war or violence," he said. "true peace can only be built on the firm foundation of justice. The Church speaks of creating 'an authentic culture of peace' in which 'the defense and promotion fo humanr ights is essential for the building up of a peaceful society,'" he said, citing the Compendium of the Social Teaching of the Church.

Bishop Richard Pates has become more aware of the importance of doing all we can to support our global brothers and sisters as they strive to be self-sustaining. Bishop has traveled around the world -- Ivory Coast, Venezuela, Cuba, Congo and Nigeria -- in his role as chair of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops' Committee for International Justice and Peace. The diocesan offices at the Catholic Pastoral Center are transitioning to use fair trade coffee and tea for staff use and for all our diocesan meetings. Bishop Pates encourages parishes and schools to use fair trade products and make them available for parishioners who want to be part of this economic justice initiative supported by Catholic Relief Services. Fair trade products are made or farmed by people around the world and sold here. The income is used to pay those who farmed or made the products a just and livable wage.

For the third time in less than a year internationally known musical artist Steve Angrisano will be in the Diocese of Des Moines. He led the Youth Rally during last year's diocesan Centennial Celebration and just last month was at the Christ Our Life Regional Conference. Angrisano will be appearing with Sarah Hart and Jesse Manibusen this Thursday during a "Ministering to those who Minister" workshop at St. Francis of Assisi Parish in West Des Moines. Angrisano, Hart and Manibusen will be giving a concert Thursday at 7 p.m. at the parish. A free will donation will be collected; there will be no ticket sales. All three artists will have their CDs and merchandise for sale. For more information, or to RSVP for the workshop, contact Jade at jwadding@saintfrancischurch.org.

This Saturday is the 19th annual Iowa institute for Social Action featuring keynote speaker Bishop Richard Pates on "Threats to World Peace and the Church's Response." Don't forget to register. A variety of breakout sessions will focus on social concenrs of the Church. The event is sponsored by the Catholic dioceses of iowa and the Iowa Catholic Conference.  Click here to register.

This weekend there will be a special collection for seminarians. Please keep our 18 seminarians in your prayers as they discern their vocation to priesthood. They are in formation in seminaries throughout the Midwest. If you or someone you know is interested in learning more about our vocations program, email vocations@dmdiocese.org or call Father Joe Pins at 515-237-5050.

Retired Bishop Joseph Charron is launching a new radio show "On a Spiritual Journey with Bishop Charron" beginning next week on 1150 KWKY Catholic radio. The show will be broadcast from St. Francis of Assisi Parish in West Des Moines, where Bishop Charron will talk with eighth graders and junior high students. The show will be heard Wednesday at 2:30 p.m., Thursday at 9 a.m. and Saturday and Sunday.

A group called Friends of St. Francis (a care of creation group) at St. Mary-Holy Cross Parish in Elkhart invites everyone to a showing of the movie "Sun Come Up" on the feast of St. Francis, Oct. 4 at 7 p.m. The movie is being promoted by the Catholic Coalition on Climate Change and the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. The film depicts some of the world's first "climate refugees," inhabitants of the Carteret Islands just north of Bougainville, Papua New Guinea. The local Catholic Church has been instrumental in efforts to relocate people leaving the islands.  The film is 38-minutes long and will be followed by a reception and discussion about the film and what we can do in response based in authentic Catholic teaching. In his 2010 World Day of Peace message, Pope Benedict XVI said, "Can we remain indifferent before the problems associated with such realities as climate change ... Can we disregard the growing phenomenon of 'environmental refugees' ...?" For more information, contact Tim Kautza at 515-964-7687 or tkautza@saintmaryhc.org and visit catholicclimatecovenant.org.

As fall kicks into gear, the annual Andrew Dinners begin. Bishop Richard Pates will be visiting the regions of the diocese to have dinner with young men considering a vocation to the priesthood and priests of the region. It's a great way to visit, hear Bishop's vocation story and ask questions about what it's like to be a priest. Tonight, Bishop Pates will be having an Andrew Dinner at St. Ambrose Cathedral, 607 High St. in Des Moines. For more information, contact vocations@dmdiocese.org.

It's time to get your tickets to the Christ Our Life Regional Conference Sept. 22-23 at Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines. Be inspired and become stronger in your faith. Come to hear world reknown speakers such as Washington, D.C. Cardinal Donald Wuerl, San Antonio Archbishop Gustavo Garcia-Siller, our own Bishop Richard Pates, Father Michael Gaitley, converts Allen Hunt and Roy Schoeman, Rwandan genocide survivor Immaculee Ilibagiza, Mary's Meals' founder Magnus MacFarlane-Barrow, former gangster John Pridmore, and musician Steve Angrisano. Get your tickets here and be ready for the Christ Our Life Regional Conference!

The diocese has posted on its website a checklist of documents needed by young undocumented immigrants who need temporary protection from deportation and a work permit. The checklist is called Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals. Bishop Pates and the U.S. bishops welcomed the June 15 decision by the Obama Administration to halt deportations of youth who were brought to this country while they were children.

Tom Chapman, of the Iowa Catholic Conference (the public policy arm of the Church in Iowa), will be talking about the U.S. bishops' document "Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship" on Sept. 11 at St. Peter parish hall in Council Bluffs and on Oct. 11 at Our Lady's Immaculate Heart Church in Ankeny. Catholics are encouraged to form their conscience in light of Church teaching and get involved in the political process. Learn more by attending one of these Faithful Citizenship discussions.

Register now for the 19th annual Iowa Institute for Social Action to be held Saturday, Oct. 6. The event will be at St. Theresa parish in Des Moines beginning at 9 a.m. Bishop Richard Pates will be the keynote speaker on "Threats to World Peace and the Church's Response.' There will be a variety of breakout sessions on the social concerns of the Church. The cost to attend is $25 and includes lunch. Registration and session listing is available online at www.iowasocialaction.org. The event is sponsored by the Catholic dioceses of Iowa and the Iowa Catholic Conference. Check out the brochure here.

It's time to get your tickets to the Christ Our Life Regional Conference Sept. 22-23 at Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines. Be inspired and become stronger in your faith. Come to hear world reknown speakers such as Washington, D.C. Cardinal Donald Wuerl, San Antonio Archbishop Gustavo Garcia-Siller, our own Bishop Richard Pates, Father Michael Gaitley, converts Allen Hunt and Roy Schoeman, Rwandan genocide survivor Immaculee Ilibagiza, Mary's Meals' founder Magnus MacFarlane-Barrow, former gangster John Pridmore, and musician Steve Angrisano. Get your tickets here and be ready for the Christ Our Life Regional Conference!

As part of the commencement ceremony at Mercy College of Health Sciences last Friday, Bishop Richard Pates blessed the hands of graduates with olive oil, fitting to represent the copious outpouring of sacramental grace. Through this action, all present were reminded of the calling of service the graduates will undertake through their chosen careers.

Catholic Charities Social Justice Consortium recently named Ken Bresnan as the new Respect Life initiative contact for the consortium, which uses the expertise of multiple people for a braoder impact on social justice issues. Bishop Richard Pates and Catholic Charities Executive Director Nancy Galeazzi appointed Bresnan, who currently serves as Parish Outreach Liaison at Catholic Charities. The Respect life initiative assists parishes in understanding and implementing the concept of the Consistent Life Ethic, whereby the respect and dignity of all persons is embraced from the moment of conception to natural death. A consistent life ethic means being pro-life across the board: opposing abortion, capital punishment, assisted suicide and euthanasia.

Congratulations to Dowling Catholic High School senior Brad Robey, whose photo of Father Zachary Kautzky won first place in the Youth Division of Photography at the Iowa State Fair. The photography Salon's theme this year is Iowa churches. Brad thought this photo captured the essence of church.  The photo will be on display in the Cultural Center during the fair.

Bishop  Richard Pates wrote a column for America magazine about the challenge for Catholics to live their fatih in the public arena given today's political environment. Read the story, called "In this together: How Catholics can overcome partisan divisions."

Dr. Eileen Burke-Sullivan from Creighton University will be on site teaching the course, "Eucharist: Liturgical Theology and Practice." For more information, please visit http://www.dmdiocese.org/lay-ecclesial-ministry.cfm or contact Dr. Cheryl Fournier at cfournier@dmdiocese.org or 515-237-5006.

Bishop Richard Pates is on his way to Africa for a visit of solidary with the bishops of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. He makes this visit in his role as chair of the U.S. bishops' Committee on International Justice and Peace. He will also visit Nigeria, a country from which we have several priests serving in our diocese. Bishop Pates will attend the ordination of several priests with the Congregation of the Holy Spirit.

Is your parish doing any special prayers, rosaries, novenas or other activity related to the drought? If so, contact The Catholic Mirror at acox@dmdiocese.org.

Prayers for farms and farmers are a part of life here in Iowa. This year, with conditions now at the worst in nearly 25 years, those prayers are more persistent. NOAA recently declared that conditions around the nation are at their worst since 1956. We've received a few requests for prayers in time of drought, and here is one option that pastors and parishioners may find helpful. This was composed by the Rev. Thomas L. Weitzel, a pastor of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America. 

Blessing of the Parched Earth

Pastor/Leader:  

Blessed are you, O God, king of the universe.
You made the whole earth for your glory
and nurture it with sun and rain and the passing seasons.
We lift our voices in praise and sing with all creation to give you glory. 

Bless + now our parched earth.
Open your heavens wide
and send forth the rains that nurture the earth,
the fields and their crops,
your people and all your creatures.
Make the earth to break forth in abundance,
so that the harvest from your hand may enrich our lives,
and all people see the greatness of God.

Bless also those who are in any distress from this hot dry season:
the elderly, the poor, the homeless,
the industries and people who depend upon the land.
Save us all by your gracious hand.

Heal us and bind us up in faith.

To you be honor and glory and praise,
with the Son and Holy Spirit, now and in all ages to come.

All respond:  Amen

Bishop's Catholic Charities Golf Classic is scheduled for August 27th. Sign up your foursome today to participate in this fundraiser for Catholic Charities programs such as the St. Joseph Family Shelter, and pregnancy counseling. Learn more at Catholiccharitiesdm.org or call (515)237-5078 for more details. Spots are limited so sign up today!

NOVOS on High, a vibrant community of Catholic young adults in the Des Moines area will meet tonight at St. Ambrose Cathedral at 6 pm. Confession will be offerred at 6 pm with a rosary beginning at 6:30, followed by Mass at 7 pm. For more information, contact Tessa Schaeller at 515-309-1936 or Tessa@stmcenter.com.

You can now follow the latest news, updates, and information on the new diocesan Twitter at http://twitter.com/dmdiocese

Bishop Richard Pates ordained Father Chori Seraiah on Sunday, July 8, to the priesthood for the Personal Ordinariate of the Chair of St. Peter, which is the equivalent of a diocese. The ordinariate was created on Jan. 1 and is composed of parishes, groups, religious communities and invidiuals of the Anglican heritage. The members of the ordinariate include "those faithful, of every category or state of life, who, originally have belonged to the Anglican Communion, are now in full communion with the Catholic Church, or who have received the sacraments of intitiation within the jurisdiction of the ordinariate itself, or who are received into it because they are part of a family belonging to the ordinariate" (Decree of Establishment, 1). Joning the new pilgrims may also be the clergy and people of the Anglican use parishes, who have been the pioneers in the noble work of living out the Anglican heritage within the Catholic Church.

   The diocese's Independence Celebration Walk & Picnic, held Sunday, July 1, was a success, drawing thousands of people to the east lawn of the Capitol for barbecue food, music, prayer and speakers talking about religious liberty.

   The Independence Celebration was the Diocese of Des Moines' primary activity during the Fortnight for Freedom, a two-week period ending on the Fourth of July. The Fortnight was called for by the U.S. bishops as a way of raising awareness, education and prayer for religious liberty.

   To see the full article come to the News section of our website. The diocese posted 64 photos on its Facebook page at Facebook.com/dmdiocese.

Sister Joyanne Mueller, Sister Linda Zahner, and Sister Helen Mueting will all be leaving the Diocese of Des Moines. The Diocese wishes to express its gratitude to these women and their many years of service.

Tonight at 6:00 pm, doors will open for NOVOS at St. Ambrose Cathedral in downtown Des Moines. Confession will be available at 6:30pm, followed by Mass being offered at 7:00pm. Following Mass, those attending will be invited to Legend's American Grill at 216 Court Avenue, a casual setting to meet other young Catholic adults. For more information, feel free to contact Tessa Schealler at (515)309-9136 or e-mail her at tessa@stmcenter.com.

Come to the Independence Celebration Walk & Picnic this Sunday, July 1. We'll meet at St. Ambrose Cathedral, at 6th Avenue and High Street in downtown Des Moines, and walk to the east lawn of the Capitol. You can bring a picnic lunch or buy some barbecue food there. We'll have music, speakers and prayer as we celebrate our religious freedom, hear about threats to our religious liberty and learn what we can do to protect the rights with which we have been blessed. Don't miss the event if you can't make the walk. Ample parking is available by the Capitol. If you do make the walk, you're welcome to use the shuttle service we'll offer to bring people back to their cars parked by the cathedral. Check out our website page for more information, a map of the walk, parking information and more.

Bishop Richard Pates issued two statements on recent issues pertaining to immigration.

Bishop Pates joined the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops in welcoming the decision by President Obama, announced Friday, June 15, to halt deportations of youth who were brought to this country while they were children. The President's decision applies to those who are: under age 30, were brought to the United States when they were under the age of 16, have lived in the United States for at least five years and are in school, obtained a General Education Development (GED) certificate or were honorably discharged from the Armed Forces. "This is a long overdue initiative," said Bishop Pates. "I have met many young people who were brought to this country by their parents and, while I do not know who among them is documented, I do know that they bring a great many gifts to share with us. This is a terrific relief to families who feared being torn apart and a great opportunity for young people to contribute to our communities." Bishop Pates said he hopes this change in immigration status, which is similar to the DREAM Act, can be codified into law so that it is not subject to the whim of whoever is President. The Diocese of Des Moines is working with several other organizations to develop opportunities for young immigrants to earn their GED. As plans are made regarding this initiative, information will be released.

On Monday, June 25, upon learning of the U.S. Supreme Court decision in Arizona vs United States, Bishop Pates said: "The Supreme Court decision once again has highlighted the urgency and necessity of achieving comprehensive immigration reform through the Congress and supported by the President. Immigration is an issue that pertains to the federal level. In addressing these issues, it is important to continue to strive to resolve them in a manner that truly respects the dignity of every human person and their families. In the American tradition, I believe this can be done. I am confident that this will be achieved if we, as citizens, take heart and are determined to deal humanely and practically with the current situation while estbalishing long-term legal provisions that can be reasonably enforced."

There will be a concert held on July 1st at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Des Moines beginning at 2:00 pm for the retirement of Sister Pat Scherer. Featured Performers are The Community Jazz Center Big Band, Gina gelder, and Abe Goldstein and The Java Jews. Admission is free with a free will offering for refugee ministry in the Des Moines-metro area.  

The fourth-annual 'Fairway Fathers' will tee off today in Des Moines. The vocations-awarness event, sponsored by the Office of Vocations, Serra Club of Des Moines, and the Knights of Columbus is open at no cost to golfers between the ages of 16 and 40. A Deli Lunch will be served as the young men team up with priests, including Bishop Pates for a round of golf at Blank Golf Course on the south side of Des Moines. The tournament will be followed by a brief program to promote vocations in the Diocese.

The Diocese of Des Moines is organizing a pilgrimage to Rio de Janiero, Brazil for World Youth Day in 2013. April Young, a pilgrim to Madrid, Spain in 2012 explains, "World Youth Day gave me a chance to experience the faith with many people from many cultures." For more information on travel dates, cost, and more, contact Jason Kurth at jkurth@dmdiocese.org, or call 515-237-5061.

"Fortnight for Freedom," a national campaign designated by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops in support of religious freedom, begins today. The Diocese will celebrate the Fortnight for Freedom with an Independence Day Celebration Walk and Picnic. More Information at http://dmdiocese.org/religious-liberty.cfm

We wish to congratulate Katie Flood, a 2010 graduate of Dowling Catholic High School and current sophomore at the University of Washington, for winning the 1500m run at the NCAA National Championships at Drake Stadium in Des Moines earlier this month. We wish her the best of luck as she continues preparations for the Olympic Trials that begin later this week. Go Katie!

We wish to congratulate Alegent Health Mercy Hospital in Council Bluffs on their 125th anniversary. They celebrated their 125th anniversary this past May 22, in which Bishop Pates Blessed a new Healing Garden at the hospital.

Tonight at 6:00 pm, doors will open for NOVOS at St. Ambrose Cathedral in downtown Des Moines. Confession will be available at 6:30pm, followed by Mass being offered at 7:00pm. Following Mass, those attending will be invited to Legend's American Grill at 216 Court Avenue, a casual setting to meet other young Catholic adults. For more information, feel free to contact Tessa Schealler at (515)309-9136 or e-mail her at tessa@stmcenter.com.

Miranda Leek, an alumna of Dowling Catholic High School in West Des Moines, secured a spot on the Olympic team for archery. We wish to congratulate Miranda on her accomplishments and wish her the best of luck as she prepares to compete in the 2012 Olympic Games in London.

Msgr. Frank Bognanno, pastor of Christ the King Church in Des Moines, read a letter from Bishop Richard Pates at Friday's Stand Up for Religious Freedom rally at the Capitol. Bishop Pates invited everyone to the July 1 Independence Celebration Walk & Picnic. The July 1 event celebrates our American and Christian heritage of religious liberty. Meet at noon that Sunday for the walk to the east lawn of the Capitol, where there will be music, speakers talking about threats to our religious liberty, and an ecumenical prayer service. Find out more about the picnic, the route of the walk, parking options at the Capitol and more by following this link.

Catholic Charities will be sponsoring 'Catholic Charities Night' tonight at Principal Park, starting with a tailgate at 5:30 pm, and followed by the baseball game between the Iowa Cubs and the Nashville Sounds. Bishop Richard Pates will be throwing out the first pitch.

In addition to ticket sales, Catholic Charities have also made skyboxes available for purchase, each skybox having an unique theme related to the service of Catholic Charities, such as homelessness, hunger, and poverty. These themes will help to educate the guests while enjoying the baseball game. There will also be a silent auction that includes items to bid on, including tickets to the World Series.

The annual event raises money for essential social services provided by Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Des Moines. Last year, over $60,000 were raised to support the organization through the event.

 

Three seminarians from the Diocese of Des Moines, Ross Parker, Adam Westphal, and Fabian Moncada, were ordained to the transitional deaconate last Friday, the last major step to priesthood. The Ordination was broadcast live on 1150 KWKY, and will be rebroadcast at noon on Wednesday June 6.

Bishop Richard Pates will ordain three seminarians as deacons as they continue to follow their call to priesthood. The ordination will be this Friday, June 1 at 7 p.m. at Holy Trinity Church, 2926 Beaver Ave. in Des Moines. The three candidates to be ordained are:

• Adam Westphal, of Holy Trinity Parish in Des Moines. Adam says a retreat called Teens Encounter Christ in his senior year of high school was a key part of his faith journey.
• Ross Parker, of St. Thomas Aquinas parish in Indianola. Ross says his vocational call is not only something between him and God but also involves the community and the greater Church.
• Fabian Moncada Benevides, of Our Lady of the Americas Parish in Des Moines. Fabian, a former psychologist in Columbia, says he hopes to be an asset as a bilingual minister to the Hispanic community.

The transitional diaconate is the last major step in one's formation process before being ordained a priest. The priestly ordination for the three is slated for early June, 2013. For more information on vocations, please call 515-237-5014.

The annual Memorial Day Mass will be celebrated at Glendale Cemetery in Des Moines this Monday, May 28, at 10 a.m. Bishop Richard Pates will be presider and homilist. Everyone is welcome! In case of rain, Mass will be celebrated at 10:15 a.m. at St. Theresa Church at University Avenue and Merle Hay Road in Des Moines. The liturgy is sponsored by the Knights of Columbus, Bishop Daly Council #644.

Tune in to "In the Heartland With Bishop Pates" radio show on 1150 KWKY Catholic Radio and the Spirit Catholic Radio Network on Friday at 10 a.m. This is a show you don't want to miss! Bishop will be talking with Sara Eide and Joe LeValley about plans at Mercy Medical Center and about healthcare legislation. With 12 lawsuits filed by 43 different organizations this week, this is a timely topic for Bishop's radio show. Hear what Bishop Pates has to say.

The U.S. bishops have called for local activities in celebration of our religious liberty in the two weeks, or "fortnight," leading up to the Fourth of July. In the Diocese of Des Moines, we're planning an Independence Celebration Walk and Picnic at the state Capitol on the Sunday prior to the national holiday. Come and gather at noon on Sunday, July 1 at St. Ambrose Cathedral, 6th Avenue and High Street  in Des Moines, and walk with us to the Capitol, where we'll picnic in celebration of our religious liberty. Lunch will be available to purchase or you can bring your own. Music (including instrumental and vocal) will be there. We'll have some speakers and a prayer service. Pamphlets on religious freedom and American flags will be provided for all participants. The program concludes at 2 p.m. with an additional hour for people to socialize. The event concludes at 3 p.m. If you can't walk, you're welcome to drive up to the Capital lawn, on the east side, and park near there so you can be a part of our festivities. Check our website here for details.

Bishop Richard Pates announced his approval and the implementation of a policy for the Diocese of Des Moines regarding church/school activities in the diocese on Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings as recommended by the diocesan Presbyteral (priests) Council. This policy is the culmination of a pastoral vision for high school youth that includes a comprehensive approach to adolescent faith formation. Here is a copy of the policy.

One of the stated priorities of the Diocese of Des Moines is to focus more directly on the faith formation and youth ministry needs of teenagers and young adults. In issuing this policy, Bishop Pates said: "Our contemporary culture continues to invade the valuable time necessary for religius education as well as family time. This diocesan policy strives to make certain sufficient time is provided among the myriad activities that crowd the schedules of our youth. Priests, parents, religious educators and youth ministers recognize the lifelong benefit of such outreach."

The effort to promote fair trade products for Catholic Relief Services has grown by one person. Tim McEntee, of our Lady's Immaculate Heart Parish in Ankeny has joined Kathy Regan, of St. Patrick Parish in Imogene, to encourage more use of fair trade products throughout the diocese. They've had some success: the Catholic Pastoral Center (where many diocesan offices are based) and the St. Thomas More Center (home of Catholic Youth Camp) are both switching to fair trade coffee. Fair trade refers to coffee, tea, sugar, chocolate and artisan crafts that are made in second- and third-world countries and sold here. "Just a few cents more for a cup of coffee provides the opportunity to eradicate poverty by putting food on the table of the grower, providing health care and educational opportunities," said Regan. See the full story in this month's edition of The Catholic Mirror, hitting mailboxes this weekend.

Congratulations to local Knights of Columbus recently elected to statewide office during the convention in Sioux City recently.

Elected for the upcoming year are:

• Joe Ramirez, Christ the King, Des Moines, state deputy
• Dan Werner, St. Francis of Assisi, West Des Moines, state secretary
• Jon Aldrich, Ss. John and Paul, altoona, state warden
• Francis Schlueter, Our Lady's Immaculate Heart, Ankeny, state treasurer
• Jason Follett, Our Lady's Immaculate Heart, Ankeny, 3rd degree executive committee

Local Knights of Columbus honored during the convention are:  

• Knight of the Year -- Steve Cashman, St. Francis, West Des Moines
• Grand Knight of the Year -- Donald Hauser, St. Augustin, Des Moines
• Chaplain of the Year for DM Diocese -- Father Chris Reising, Our Lady of the Americas, Des Moines
• Church Service Award -- Our Lady of the Americas, Des Moines
• Council Service Award -- Our Lady of the Americas, Des Moines
• Insurance Agent of the Year -- Steve Tatz, Basilica of St. John

Fairway Fathers -- the annual vocations event that brings young men and priests together on the golf course to have some fun and talk about what it's like being a priest -- has been rescheduled. The event date has changed to June 25. Fairway Fathers will be held at Blank Golf Course on the south side of Des Moines, First t-times will likely begin at 10 a.m. with a deli lunch, prizes and a brief vocations program to follow. Fairway Fathers is a joint venture sposored by the Office of Vocations, Serra Club of Des Moines and the Knights of Columbus. The tournament is open to golfers ages 16 to 40 who team up with priests in our diocese, including Bishop Richad Pates. The purpose of the event is vocations awareness, not competition. There is no cost for young men to participate. Contact the Vocations Office for more information.

If you're a young Catholic in your 20s or 30s, then Novos on High is for you! Come out to St. Ambrose Cathedral (6th and High Streets in Des Moines) tonight. We'll open the doors at 6 p.m. with confession, then pray the rosary at 6:30 p.m. and celebrate Mass at 7 p.m. After Mass, we'll head to Legends American Grill (216 Court Ave.) for fun. Questions? Contact Tessa at 515-309-1936.

The St. Thomas More Center, home of Catholic Youth Camp, could use your help. Volunteers are needed to help with some cleanup at the center. Email Ammy Webster if you have some time to get the center ready for the more than 1,600 youth who have signed up for Catholic Youth Camp this summer.

Catholic Charities is taking applications for the sixth annual Bishop Charron Caritas Award. The award is presented to an individual and organizatio that shows exceptional compassion, service and love to all those in need through their volunteer work wtih Catholic Charities. Nominations for this award are open to the public and are due by May 15. Applications can be obtained by calling 515-237-5019 or emailing pnestvedt@dmdiocese.org or check out the Catholic Charities website.

As of April 27, the diocese has more than $3 million pledged (over 81 percent of the annual goal) for the Annual Diocesan Appeal. We thank each parish, volunteer and donor for their ongoing efforts and support of this appeal. The ADA allows Bishop Pates to provide ministry at 81 parishes throughout our 23 counties. In order to reach our goal of just over $3.7 million, we encourage parishioners to make a gift to support their parish and diocesan ministry. Gifts of any size are encouraged. Misplaced your pledge card? You can go online to make a gift. Click here. The diocesan website has been a popular tool for gift giving again this year!

The diocese has begun planning for World Youth Day 2013 in Rio de Janeiro, Brail. Join Bishop Richard Pates and others from the diocese on a pilgrimage of faith. Contact Jason Kurth at jkurth@dmdiocese.org for more information.

Now is the time to get your tickets for the June 7 Catholic Charities at the Iowa Cubs event at Principal Park. See a great game, visit with friends and know that proceeds from ticket sales purchased before the game benefit those served by Catholic Charities. Sponsored by Mercy Medical Center, this event raises enough funds to operate the St. Mary Family Center food pantry and clothing closet for six months. St. Mary's services 450 families. This is just one way you can have fun and support members of our community. Tickets range from $5 to $75. We have new ticket options, small-group packages and skyboxes. Ask your parish about tickets or contact Catholic Charities at 515-237-5089 or order online by clicking here.

Registration for this summer's Catholic Youth Camp are up over last year, with more than 1,600 young people planning for fun in the name of God at the St. Thomas More Center in Panora. This will be the 52nd season and thousands of youth have memories of their experiences, directors and counselors from CYC. You can still register your children at the St. Thomas More Center website or you can contact Ammy Webster at 515-309-1936 or email her for more information.

We've made a couple of small changes to the Worship Office web pages that we hope will be helpful to people around the diocese. 

• Seasonal Banner: Click on the words of the current liturgical season (currently the Easter Season)  to visit the St. Louis Center for Liturgy's excellent site focused on preparing individuals and families for the upcoming Sunday liturgy. Updated weekly.
• Seasonal Image: Click on the image just below the banner to visit the USCCB's daily Mass reading page. The link always takes you to the current day's readings. The image is updated seasonally.
• The Year of Grace: Updated annually, this handy reference lists key Sunday, holy day, and solemnity information, as well as special diocesan events. 

While you're there, browse our other pages, and send a note if you have ideas for our website. 

Tune in Friday at 10 a.m. to "In the Heartland With Bishop Pates" on 1150 KWKY Catholic Radio and Spirit Catholic Radio Network 102.7 FM to hear a salute to Dr. Tom Neal, director of the St. Joseph Educational Center and co-host of Bishop Richard Pates's radio show over the past three years. This is Tom's last show as he packs up and heads south to begin a new phase of his career in academia. Tune in to hear stories about the funny moments, powerful moments, various memories and reflections on the value of the show as a pastoral tool for Bishop Pates. Joining Bishop Pates and Tom will be Rachel Egan and Faye Akers, who will talk about the mission of the SJEC, which Tom has led over the past few years. They will focus on evangelization and the many programs and efforts of the center. To share your memories of "In the Heartland With Bishop Pates" call 515-223-1150 between 10 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. this Friday, April 27.

Bishop Richard Pates, in his role as chair of the U.S. bishops' Committee on International Justice and Peace, wrote a letter to Secretary of State Hillary Clinton saying the U.S. should establish full diplomatic relations and withdraw all restrictions on travel to Cuba to advance the cause of human rights and religious liberty. Read the bishop's statement in its entirety here.

Retired Cardinal Justin Rigali visited Des Moines this past weekend to celebrate Divine Mercy Sunday at Christ the King and the Basilica of St. John parishes.

Please keep the community of Creston in your prayers as it recovers from a tornado that touched down Saturday, April 14, hitting a local hospital. Father Joe Pins, pastor of Holy Spirit Parish in Creston, said all church property appears to be fine. Early Sunday morning, he said at least three parishioners lost their homes.

The diocesan Vocations Office has launched a new program geared toward young women discerning a vocation to religious life. The effort, called Bella Vita (which is Italian for "beautiful life") is patterned after the Andrew Dinners, held for young men discerning a vocation to the priesthood or religious life. Bella Vita's mission is to offer exposure to the religious life and religious vocation through the visible witness of religious sisters joyfully living out God's call in their own lives. The next event is Wednesday, April 18, at St. Theresa Parish in Des Moines beginning at 6 p.m. Young women in ninth grade or oder are invited to 30 minutes of adoration followed by dinner and fellowship. A short talk and Q&A discussion follows with one School Sister of Christ the King, from Lincoln, Neb. and two Handmaids of the Heart of Jesus, of New Ulm, Minn. There is no cost. Please RSVP to vocations@dmdiocese.org.

The Des Moines Area Religious Council is delighted to announce the second lecture in the David Bear Memorial Interfaith Lecture Series.  This year’s event will be held on May 2, 2012, 7:00 p.m., in Waveland Hall at Plymouth Congregational Church, 4126 Ingersoll Ave. in Des Moines.  Speaking on “The Role of Music in Worship” and leading us in song will be Kyle Lechtenberg, Director, Office of Worship, Roman Catholic Diocese of Des Moines and Linda Shivers, Cantor, Tifereth Israel Synagogue.  

This series of lectures is made possible by a legacy left by David Bear, a prominent Des Moines engineer and businessman for more than 50 years. Bear was passionate about serving the community.  A member and leader at Tifereth Israel Synagogue, he was a pioneer in breaking down barriers among people of all faiths.  In addition to his many other professional and community affiliations, he served as President of the Des Moines Area Religious Council in 1992 and was President of the DMARC Foundation in 1989 and 1990.  He continued to serve as a board member of the Foundation until his death in the spring of 2010.  In his honor, the Bear family has established the David Bear Memorial Interfaith Lecture Series.   The lecture is open to the public and there is no cost to attend. Please visit the DMARC website: www.dmreligious.org/lectures or call (515) 277-6969 for more information.

The annual Good Friday collection is one means thorugh which we can all be witnesses of peace and help to protect and support the works of the Church in the Holy Land. The Holy Father asks all Catholics to support the Franciscans in their effort not only to care for the holy places but also provide for the welfare of our brothers and sisters in that part of the world. Bishop Richard Pates says their pastoral care is expressed in a wide-ranging effort on behalf of all the poorest social classes, both Christian and non-Christian. Through the efforts of the Franciscans for nearly 800 years, housing and health care have been provided and schools operated. The shrines and chapels of the Holy Land are maintained and service provided to 29 parishes. Your generosity will be a powerful sign of our support for the Christians living in the midst of the violence and instability of that part of the world and for the Franciscans who continue to ring the messag eof Jesus to the Holy Land.

Bishop Richard Pates celebrated Palm Sunday Mass at St. Ambrose Cathedral and again at St. Thomas More Center in Panora for 200 confirmation candidates taking part in a diocesan retreat this past weekend. With Palm Sunday, the Catholic Church enters holy week. Check your local parish for Mass times and services during the Triduum. The schedule for St. Ambrose Cathedral is as follows:

• Daily 12:10 p.m. Mass on Monday-Wednesday and Friday
• Holy Thursday, 5:30 p.m. Mass (no 12:10 p.m. daily Mass), Bishop presiding 
• Good Friday 5:30 p.m. Mass in addition to daily 12:10 p.m. (Bishop presiding at lunchtime Mass)
• Easter vigil, 8 p.m. (no 4 p.m. Mass nor reconciliation) Bishop presiding
• Easter Sunday Mass times are 7 a.m., 8:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m. (Bishop presiding at 10:30 a.m.)

The reconciliation schedule at the cathedral is as follows:

• Monday-Thursday, 11 a.m. - noon
• Monday-Wednesday, 5-6 p.m.
• Friday, 11-11:30 a.m.

Stations of the Cross schedule is as follows:

• Wednesday, 5 p.m.
• Friday, "Downtown Way of the Cross" sponsored by The Bridge, 1-2:30 p.m.

The bishops of Iowa are asking Catholics to dedicate their regular Lenten practice of abstinence, prayer and fasting today to be dedicated to religious liberty.

"Pray for your Church and political leaders that together we can find a solution that respects our respective roles in society," they said.

See their letter here.

Highlighting the 2012 Christ Our LIfe Rgional Conference this fall are two Catholic clergymen who both will have prominent roles at the World Synod of Bishops on New Evangelization, which is held two weeks after the local conference.

Cardinal Donald Wuerl, of Washington, D.C., will serve as the keynote speaker at the 2012 conference to be held Sept. 22-23 at Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines. Cardinal Wuerl will be joined by Archbishop Gustavo Garcia-Siller, of San Antonio, Texas.

"We a distinctly Catholic conference, we are blessed to have two World synod participants in Iowa just before they and bishops from across the world undertake the pope's call for ensuring Catholics better know and live the bible," said Christ Our Life Regional Confernce spokesperson Lore McManus Solo. "Cardinal Wuerl and Archbishop Garcia-Siller will both bring elements of the New Evangelization into their Christ Our Ife Conference talks."

Look for more information in the upcoming issue of The Catholic Mirror. To learn more about the conference or to purchase tickets online, go to www.ChristOurLIfeIowa.com or call 866-952-9990.

Bishop Richard Pates, seen in front of Miama Archbishop Thomas Wenski (standing) in this photo, waits with other bishops for the start of Pope Benedict XVI's Mass at Antonio Maceo Revolution Square in Santiano de Cuba on Monday. Bishop Pates, in his role as chair of the U.S. bishop's Committee on International Peace and Justice, traveled with a small delegation of U.S. bishops for the Holy Father's visit to Cuba this week.

Come and be a part of the diocesan celebration of Chrism Mass, at which Bishop Pates will consecrate the sacred chrism and bless holy oils that will be used in sacraments throughout the diocese in the coming year. Come to Chrism Mass at St. Ambrose Cathedral at 7 p.m. on Friday, March 30!

With the warm weather we've enjoyed, fun summer activities like road trips come to mind. Consider joining a road trip being organized by the diocesan young adult ministry. They're heading to Chicago on Memorial Day weekend for a Taize conference. Tessa Schealler, who coordinates the young adult group Novos on High, is going. Check out the website, the Facebook page and video. Then contact Tessa at tessa@stmcenter.com and let her know you're coming!

Organizers of this September's Christ Our Life Regional Conference are seeking singers and instrumentalists to sign up now for the choir. They're also looking for those who play strings, brass, wind or percussion instruments. Early registration is important to reserve a spot in the choir and to obtain the music to begin learning the various compositions. The music director is Scott Reiker and Janet Bradford will be the assistant music director. An online rehearsal toolkit will be available in June with versions of recordings available for each voice part: soprano, alto, tenor and bass. Musical compositions span more than 1,000 years with music from as early as 800 AD to a newly composed piece Rieker wrote specifically for the Christ Our Life Conference.  Rehearsals for the choir will be held at St. Pius X Parish in Urbandale on the five Sundays prior to the conference. For more information or to register, go to ChristOurLifeIowa.com or email info@ChristOurLIfeIowa.com or all 866-952-9990.

The diocesan Schools Office is seeking your participation in a brief online survey to gain insights about the education of children. If you have a school age child(ren), we would like ot hear from you. Just follow this link. The survey shoudl only take 5-10 minutes to complete. Thank you! Your feedback is greatly appreciated!

Michael Weitl, a seminarian studying at the Pontifical North American College in Rome, was installed as an acolyte on March 4 at St. Peter's Basilica, also in Rome. Michael is the son of Howard and Sharon Weitl, of  Audubon. Michael, formerly of St. Patrick Parish in Audubon, graduated from Creighton University and has been with Madonna House in Canada, for which he is in formation for priesthood. His diaconate ordination will be in October, 2013 and his priesthood ordination shortly thereafter. If you are considering a vocation to the priesthood, contact our Vocations Office at 515-237-5014.

 Bishop Richard Pates will be on the Simon Conway show on WHO Radio today, Tuesday, to talk about the HHS mandate. Tune in about 4:35 pm and hear what Bishop has to say about this important religious liberty issue.

We thank St. Theresa Parish for compiling the annual list of communal penance services in the Des Moines metro area.

You are invited to the big annual diocesan-wide gathering, Chrism Mass, to be held on Friday, March 30 at St. Ambrose Cathedral. This beautiful celebration of the pastoral and sacramental life of the diocese begins at 7 p.m. If you haven't been to the Chrism Mass, make this year your first!

Chrism Mass is when Bishop Richard Pates blesses the oil and consecrates the chrism used in sacraments throughout the diocese in the coming year.

Dr. Aimee Beckmann-Collier, who has directed many choirs for diocesan events, will once again lead the choir for Chrism Mass. A bilingual Spanish/English music setting will be used for the Mass.

Come join us for this special celebration.

Bishop Richard Pates is returning from his 'ad limina' visit in Rome, where he prayed at the churches of Ss. Peter and Paul, met with Vatican officials and visited with the Holy Father.

Bishop Richard Pates, in his role as chair of the U.S. bishops' Committee on International Justice and Peace, has issued a number of statements over the last few days regarding the Farm Bill, Iran and the federal budget. You can read about these by going to the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops' website here.

Bishop Richard Pates and Bishop Emeritus Joseph Charron, C.PP.S. went to the Vatican for an ad limina visit, which occurs once every 5-7 years. They prayed at the churches of the apostles, visited with officials at the various Vatican offices and shared time with the Holy Father. Click here to see photos.

Attention all members of the Diocese of Des Moines, with special invitation to RCIA catechumens, candidates, family, team and sponsors: You are invited to the annual Chrism Mass on March 30 at 7 p.m. at St. Ambrose Cathedral in Des Moines. This is the Mass at which the oils used for sacraments throughout the coming year are blessed by Bishop Richard Pates. All are invited, in particular parents involved in baptismal preparation and confirmation candidates. Mark your calendar now and plan to attend.

John Cortesio, Jr. shares his thoughts in a Letter to the Editor sent to the Des Moines Register regarding the federal Health and Human Services mandate. Here is what he wrote.

      Donald Kaul’s op-ed on “The Fight for Reproductive Rights” applauds the Department of Health and Human Services mandate that would enshrine as a new right an employee’s entitlement to contraceptives, abortifacients, and sterilization under health insurance plans provided by the employer with no exemption for religious institutions whose religious beliefs this would offend. The mandate resorts to the charade that the insurer must provide this coverage for free even though these costs would in reality be borne by the employer through higher premiums. In addition, many church schools, hospitals, and charities self-insure and in those instances there cannot even be the slightest pretense that the cost is extracted from someone other than the employer.

      The op-ed piece tries to second guess the wisdom of the Catholic Church’s teaching by arguing that provision by its institutions of devices that prevent conception will result in fewer abortions. Concern for that end does not justify freedom from concern about the means. Further, the argument that fewer abortions would result from such means is persuasively debunked by the information set forth in op-ed columnist Ross Douthat’s piece, “The ‘Safe, Legal, Rare’ Illusion,” which appeared in the New York Times Sunday Review of February 18, 2012.     

      Mr. Kaul’s column extols the freedom “from” religion. In doing so, he would have the Free Exercise of Religion Clause of the First Amendment thrown under the bus in favor of a “right” to coercively-provided services that is fabricated by administrative fiat.   These services are readily available and accessible, and employees of religious institutions would not be denied access by giving deference to the teachings of the employer’s religion. In characterizing the Catholic Church’s teachings on the subject as “self-serving” or “loopy,” Mr. Kaul assaults basic religious principles of the Catholic Church on the sanctity of human life. Though federal legislation may be enacted countering the new mandate, the mandate, if implemented, should not survive challenge under the First Amendment’s Free Exercise Clause and the Religious Freedom Restoration Act, which was enacted in 1993.   

A Des Moines-area Catholic submitted a Letter to the Editor recently to the Des Moines Register recently regarding the mandate from the federal Department of Health and Human Services that would require Catholic organizations to fund contraception, including abortificients. The following is the letter submitted by Linda Nesbit.

To the Editor,

Donald Kaul's editorial, "The Fight Over Reproductive Rights"  of February 26, 2012 is so full of false statements it's hard to know where to begin.  Not to mention the intolerance and anger that he seems to harbor toward the Catholic Church.  But let's start with this.  Mr. Kaul uses a few straw man arguments to draw the readers attention away from the real issue.  Religious freedom as guaranteed under the First Amendment!  Since when does the federal government have the power to tell a religion what it can and can't believe and practice?  Isn't this why the Pilgrims came here in the first place?  The government's HHS mandate is wrong no matter what you believe about contraception.  Thomas Jefferson said so eloquently, "To compel a man to furnish contributions of money for the propagation of opinions which he disbelieves and abhors, is sinful and tyrannical."  How much worse is it to force someone to pay for actions they abhor?

Noted spiritual writer and presenter Fr. Ron Rolheiser will be speaking at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton parish in Hiawatha, Iowa on Saturday, April 14. Fr. Rolheiser will be addressing the topic: Living the Ups and Downs of Our Faith -- Dark Nights and Doubt; A Failure of Faith or a Failure of Imagination. This daylong conference is being sponsored by the Archdiocese of Dubuque, the Diocese of Davenport and the Diocese of Des Moines. The registration form for the event is attached. Cost for the day is $25, which includes morning hospitality and lunch. For more information, contact Dr. Cheryl Fournier by email or call 515-237-5006.

A daylong marriage retreat based on the book "Thriving Marriages" by John and Claire Yzaguirre is planned for this Saturday at St. Augustin Parish Hall in Des Moines. Sponsored by the diocesan Office of Family Life and the Focolare Movement, the retreat costs $20 per couple but no one will be turned away if they can't afford it. To register or for more information email Adam Storey or call him at 515-237-5056.

Bishop Richard Pates created a video urging support from parishioners for the Annual Diocesan Appeal, which launches this weekend in all 81 parishes across the diocese of Des Moines. See what Bishop has to say about the role each of us can play in supporting the important ministries of the Diocese of Des Moines.

The Diocese of Des Moines centennial video "Witnessing to Christ" is now playing on area public access cable channels. The video, highlighting six lay people from across the diocese talking about how they live the gospel every day, can be seen throug Easter. The half-hour video can be seen:

• in the Des Moines metro area on Mediacom Ch. 18 on Mondays and Thursdays at 6:30 p.m.
• in the Atlantic area on Mediacom Ch. 18 on Sundays at 6 p.m.
• in the Harlan area on HMU on Sundays at 3 p.m. and Wednesdays at 8:30 p.m.

It's that time of year again for the annual voluntary subscription drive for our diocesan newspaper, The Catholic Mirror. A direct mail piece will arrive at all registered households in the Diocese of Des Moines soon. Please consider a subscription to The Catholic Mirror to help offset the cost of news gathering and production. While the newspaper is available through the diocesan website under "News" the diocese continues to mail it to all registered households. The Catholic Mirror is a cost-effective tool valuable for catechesis and evangelization in central and southwest Iowa.

During this Lent, take the Food Stamp Challenge. Here's how to do it. Each person receiving food stamps has a monthly allotment of $133.79. That translates to $4.50 per day, or $1.50 per meal. This is your food budget for all of the food you eat during the week. All food purchased and eaten during the challenge week, including fast food and dining out, must be included in the total spending. During the challenge, eat only food that you purchase for the project. Do not eat food that you already own. Share your experience at the Food Stamp Challenge conversation at facebook.com/CatholicCharitiesDM.

Each month, 373,856 Iowans use food stamps as their main source of food. Try the challenge and donate the money you save on food to the St. Mary Family Center, Catholic Charities' food pantry and free clothing closet. St. Mary's is one of the many pantry sites that helps supplement food needs when food stamps are just not enough.

Now that Lent is underway, consider being a part of Catholic Relief Services' Operation Rice Bowl. This is a great way of responding to the needs of those who ae hungry in our own community and around the world. Resources are available in parishes and school community settings. In addition to the rice bowl and Lenten calendar, your parish has access to a prayer service, Stations of the Cross, lesson plans and more. These resources are also available at orb.crs.org. During Lent, let us join in solidarity with the rest of the U.S. Catholic community to donate, fast and pray for those in our world who hunger and suffer the other hardships of poverty.

Ash Wednesday is this week, Feb. 22, kicking off the Lenten season. This is a significant day in the Catholic Church year beginning a period of forty days of prayer, fasting and charity. Catholics traditionally are marked with ashes of burnt palm branches as a sign of their recognition of their common humanity as well as their sinfulness and need for repentance in their lifelong journey of conversion. Anyone who desires it may join in this centuries-old tradition to be marked with ashes on Ash Wednesday. Membership in the Catholic Church is not a prerequisite.

Ash Wednesday and Good Friday (April 6) are days of fasting within the Church for those between the ages of 18 and 59. They may eat only one full meal and two other meals consisting of substantially less food. There should be no food taken between meals. Anyone whose health is threatened by fasting is exempted. Catholics age 14 and older also abstain from meat on Ash Wednesday, Good Friday and all Fridays of Lent.

Distribution of ashes will be held throughout the diocese on Ash Wednesday. People can call their local church for times. Ashes will be distributed at St. Ambrose Cathedral, at 6th and High Streets in Des Moines, on Wednesday during the 10 a.m., 12:10 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. liturgies.

Novos on High is a vibrant community of Catholic young adults in their 20s and 30s in the Des Moines area seeking faith and fellowship. The group meets this Thursday at 6:30 p.m. at Jordan Creek Theater to see the movie "October Baby." Cost is free for the movie but individuals must reserve tickets online at www.octoberbabymovie.net/events.  For more information, email Tessa Shealler or call her at 515-309-1936.

Bishop Richard Pates offered the homily at the closing Mass of the 2012 Catholic Social Ministry Gathering in Washington, D.C. yesterday, Feb. 15.

The purpose of the gathering is for leaders and colleagues who are involved with social justice issues to have an opportunity to share best practices, plan for emerging needs and identify areas for cooperation. It's a time for leaders to learn about the larger picture of Catholic social justice ministry and pressing domestic and global challenges relating to human life and dignity, and justice and peace. The group prays together and advocates for policies that will protect and support people suffering poverty and injustice.

In his homily, Bishop Pates encouraged those in attendance to open themselves with a spirit of prayerfulness and humility so they can be ready to act authentically, boldly and lovingly for justice.

Bishop Pates encouraged the group to protect each gift of human life, from conception until natural death. With that, he said, comes the responsibility to render dignity to each other. We do this by looking at how policies and advocacy affect the poor, he said. He referred to the Second Vatican Council's declaration of the Church's fundamental option for the poor.

 ". . . the right of having a share of earthly goods sufficient for oneself and one's family belongs to everyone. The Fathers and Doctors of the Church held this opinion, teaching that men are obliged to come to the relief of the poor and to do so not merely out of their superfluous goods.  . . . remember the aphorism of the Fathers, 'Feed the man dying of hunger, because if you have not fed him, you have killed him, and really to share and employ their earthly goods, according to the ability of each, especially by supporting individuals or peoples with the aid by which they may be able to help and develop themselves.'" (Gaudium et Spes, no. 69)

In bringing justice to the poor, Bishop Pates said we must balance what we do with how we do it. For instance, the Church teaches healthcare is a human right and it is needed to maintain the dignity of each person. It's a matter of conscience, and the founders of the United States recognized "freedom of conscience" as a companion to the right of Freedom of Religion, he said.

"Thus, the original rules established by the cabinet department of Health and Human Services implementing healthcare legislation are unacceptable," said Bishop Pates. "These rules as applied to Catholic Church institutions violated the First Amendment and the precious right of conscience.  The revised rules as recently proposed by the President need to be studied to determine if they correct the concerns.  We further ask, at this juncture, should the protective surety needed be pursued by legislation or judicial determination?  As we insist that governmental intrusion into the freedom of religion is unacceptable we serve the common good by preserving a right that is a cornerstone of our democracy." 

Bishop Pates shared about his recent visit of solidarity with bishops in Cote d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast). "From the mountaintop of the Lord, we see that the human family is one," said Bishop Pates. "All are children of God. The shrinking globe necessitates sharing our vision of justice with and on behalf of our brothers and sisters throughout the world. From our perspective as the most wealthy nation, it is imperative to embrace the poor worldwide and accord the justice that is their due."

Bishop Pates encouraged those in attendance, as they return home, to bring with them strong convictions because it is with those that hope and the inevitability of justice will prevail.

The entire homily of Bishop Pates can be viewed at dmdiocese.org/bishop-pates-homilies.cfm.

The fifth annual Art of Healing awareness event and fundraiser for Catholic Charities  Phoenix House Domestic Violence Shelter and Sexual Abuse Program in Council Bluffs will be on Thursday, March 29 at St. Peter's Social Hall in Council Bluffs. The event will kick off sexual assault awareness efforts taking place in the month of April. Contact Rachel Mabrey at 712-256-2059 or email her for more information.

Today is the annual Legislative Breakfast at the state Capitol. All four sitting bishops of Iowa, through the Iowa Catholic Conference, invite legislators to stop by a meeting room for breakfast and an opportunity to visit one on one about issues of concern to the Church in Iowa that are part of pending or proposed legislation.

Bishop Richard Pates was asked to issue a letter to the faithful regarding the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services rule on mandatory health care coverage of contraceptives, sterilization and abortion-inducing drugs. He sent a letter to all priests and deacons on Wednesday (Feb. 8) asking that the letter either be read from the pulpit or included in bulletins the weekend of Feb. 11-12.

The government issued the rule on Jan. 20. On Jan. 23, Bishop Pates sent a statement encouraging education, prayer and action to all priests and deacons. He asked that they help educate parishioners on the issue and included resources from the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. Bishop Pates also spoke on the mandate in the diocese's monthly e-newsletter "In the Diocesan Loop" distributed Feb. 3 to parish and school leadership throughout the diocese.

SIX THINGS EVERYONE SHOULD KNOW ABOUT THE HHS MANDATE

WASHINGTON— The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops offers the following clarifications regarding the Health and Human Services regulations on mandatory coverage of contraceptives, sterilization and abortion-inducing drugs.

1.  The mandate does not exempt Catholic charities, schools, universities, or hospitals.  These institutions are vital to the mission of the Church, but HHS does not deem them "religious employers" worthy of conscience protection, because they do not "serve primarily persons who share the[ir] religious tenets."  HHS denies these organizations religious freedom precisely because their purpose is to serve the common good of society—a purpose that government should encourage, not punish.

2.  The mandate forces these institutions and others, against their conscience, to pay for things they consider immoral.  Under the mandate, the government forces religious insurers to write policies that violate their beliefs; forces religious employers and schools to sponsor and subsidize coverage that violates their beliefs; and forces religious employees and students to purchase coverage that violates their beliefs.

3.  The mandate forces coverage of sterilization and abortion-inducing drugs and devices as well as contraception.  Though commonly called the "contraceptive mandate," HHS's mandate also forces employers to sponsor and subsidize coverage of sterilization.  And by including all drugs approved by the FDA for use as contraceptives, the HHS mandate includes drugs that can induce abortion, such as "Ella," a close cousin of the abortion pill RU-486.

4.  Catholics of all political persuasions are unified in their opposition to the mandate.  Catholics who have long supported this Administration and its healthcare policies have publicly criticized HHS's decision, including columnists E.J. Dionne, Mark Shields, and Michael Sean Winters; college presidents Father John Jenkins and Arturo Chavez; and Daughter of Charity Sister Carol Keehan, president and chief executive officer of the Catholic Health Association of the United States.

5.  Many other religious and secular people and groups have spoken out strongly against the mandate.  Many recognize this as an assault on the broader principle of religious liberty, even if they disagree with the Church on the underlying moral question.  For example, Protestant Christian, Orthodox Christian, and Orthodox Jewish groups--none of which oppose contraception--have issued statements against the HHS's decision.  The Washington Post, USA Today, N.Y. Daily News, Detroit News, and other secular outlets, columnists, and bloggers have editorialized against it.

6.  The federal mandate is much stricter than existing state mandates.  HHS chose the narrowest state-level religious exemption as the model for its own.  That exemption was drafted by the ACLU and exists in only 3 states (New York, California, Oregon).  Even without a religious exemption, religious employers can already avoid the contraceptive mandates in 28 states by self-insuring their prescription drug coverage, dropping that coverage altogether, or opting for regulation under a federal law (ERISA) that pre-empts state law.  The HHS mandate closes off all these avenues of relief.

Additional information on the U.S. Catholic bishops’ stance on religious liberty, conscience protection and the HHS ruling regarding mandatory coverage of contraceptives, sterilization and abortion-inducing drugs is available at http://www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/religious-liberty/conscience-protection/index.cfm.

The annual Prayer for Life gathering will be March 5 at Maple Street Missionary Baptist Church, 1552 Maple St. in Des Moines, featuring keynote presenter Walter B. Hoye II. The day offers presentations from 9:30-1 p.m., lunch included. Folks are invited to meet at the state Capitol rotunda at 3 p.m. to hear Rev. Hoye and lobby state legislators.

Hoye is founder and president of the Issues4life Foundation, the California Civil Rights Foundation and is a core member of the National Black Pro-Life Coalition. He is the author of "Leadership from the Inside Out" and is a pro-life speaker and consultant. He holds master's degrees in sociology and business administration. He was won several pro-life awards and has been jailed for peacefully protesting on a sidewalk outside an abortion clinic in California. He is a husband and father of two grown children.

Hoye's organization Issues4life Foundation targets and works directly with African-American leaders nationwide to strengthen their stand against abortion and resolve the issues surrounding the moral responsibiltiy of biotechnology in the African-American community.

The Prayer for Life day activities are cosponsored by Maple Street Missionary Baptist Church, Iowans for LIFE, Catholic Charities Social Justice Consortium, Council of Catholic Women, The Family Leader, Iowa Catholic Conference, Iowa Right to Life Committee, Knights of Columbus and Teen Pact.

To register or get more information, contact Iowans for LIFE at 515-255-4113 or iowansforlife@msn.com.

A recent editorial in the Des Moines Register headlined "A dozen issues and people to watch" listed several people in the Des Moines metro area to watch in 2012. The people listed are either involved in a high-profile issue or are "'doers' if not leaders," according to the newspaper. Among those listed is Antonio Banuelos, of St. Ambrose Cathedral Parish. he was born in Mexico, earned degrees at the University of Texas-El Paso and Drake University and settled in Des Moines. Antonio owns Mayan Business Solutions, a translation service for the medical and legal fields. Antonio does much translation from English to Spanish for the Diocese of Des Moines and is a leader on the diocesan Hispanic Pastoral Commission. He and his wife, Mayra, are involved in their parish and the Hispanic Christian Family Movement.

The diocese, through its Campus Ministry, is offering the second annual student health care conference on Friday, Feb. 10, at Mercy Medical Center in Des Moines. This year's conference, called "Where Spirituality and Healing Begin" will feature a keynote talk on what research says about the link between spirituality and healing plus sessions on conscience protection for health care workers and health care as related to social justice. For more information or to register, click here.

The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops urges us to write to Congress encouraging support for the Respect for Rights of Conscience Act (H.R. 1179, S. 1467). This act is being proposed to correct the threats to religious liberty and the rights of conscience. The act would ensure that those who participate in the health care system "retain the right to provide, purchase, or enroll in health coverage that is consistent with their religious beliefs and moral convictions." It is important that members of Congress be urged to co-sponsor the measure. To see who is co-sponsoring the bill right now, go to www.thomas.loc.gov. You can help by calling the US Capitol switchboard at 202-224-3121 or call your Congressman's local office. You can also get contact information at www.house.gov and www.senate.gov. Feel free to use the message: "Please co-sponsor the Respect for Rights of Conscience Act (HR 1179, S 1467). This measure ensures that the rights of conscience of all participants in our nation's health care system will be respected."

During this Catholic Schools Week, Bishop Richard Pates will be celebrating Mass with educators from our Catholic Schools. The Mass is today at St. Joseph Church on Des Moines' east side, beginning at 2 p.m.

Cardinal Rigali is coming! Did you see the ad in the January edition of The Catholic Mirror? Cardinal Justin Rigali, now retired, will be coming to the Diocese of Des Moines April 14 & 15 to celebrate Divine Mercy weekend at Christ the King Church, on Des Moines' south side.

Cardinal Rigali, the youngest of seven, was born and raised in Los Angeles. After ordination, he served a number of years abroad and accompanied Pope John Paul II on several of his visits. In the United States, he  served the Archdioceses of St. Louis and Philadelphia until his retirement in 2011.

For more information on the cardinal's visit and plans for this year's Divine Mercy Sunday activities, go to divinemercydesmoines.com.

Father Richard L. Bergman, 82, died this past Saturday at the Bishop Drumm Care Center in Johnston after having been a priest for 56 years. The family will receive friends from 5-7 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 31, at Holy Trinity Church in Des Moines, his home parish, with a rosary at 7 p.m. The funeral Mass is Wednesday, Feb. 1, at 10 a.m. at Holy Trinity Church.

Father Bergman attended Dowling Catholic High School, Loras College and Mt. St. Bernard Seminary. He was ordained in 1955 at St. Ambrose Cathedral by Bishop Edward Daly.

Father studied Canon law in Rome. In 1966, he began leading the Tribunal Office of the Diocese of Des Moines, which handles matrimony and annulment issues. He held that assignment until 1978. He also served at: St. Anthony and Visitation (now Our Lady of the Americas) Parishes in Des Monies; St. Mary, Panama; St. Michael, Harlan; St. Joseph, Earling; St. Mary/Holy Cross, Elkhart; St. Patrick, Irish Settlement; Assumption, Churchville; St. Patrick, Bayard-Jamaica; St. Mary, Lacona; St. Augustine, Milo; St. Mary, Rosemount; All Saints, Stuart. Father Bergman was pastor of All Saints Church in Stuart when an arsonist burned the church down. He retired in 1997.

On Sunday, Catholic Schools Week kicks off nationally.  The Catholic schools from the Diocese of Des Moines are celebrating the week with a variety of activities and open houses.  Se sure to visit an open house to tour a school, meet teachers, administrators and staff, and learn more about Catholic schools.  For a listing of all the open houses, visit www.dmdiocese.org/catholic-schools.cfm.

Last Friday, the U.S. Department of Health and Human services issued a rule requiring virtually all private health plans to include coverage for all FDA-approved prescription contraceptives, female sterilization procedures and related "patient education and counseling for all women with reproductive capacity." This is considered a direct assault on Freedom of Conscience and the free exercise of religion through the First Amendment.

To better understand the rule and what's at stake, check out this press release from the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, this backgrounder and these questions and answers. In addition, here is a video message from Archbishop Timothy Dolan, president of the USCCB, in which he explains the situation.

Updates will be posted on Catholic Charities Social Justice Consortium webpage.

God can't steer a car in park

My name is Father John Acrea. I'm a priest of the Diocese of Des Moines and one of the spiritual directors at the St. John Vianney Seminary in Minnesota.  I know that Bishop Richard Pates is inviting young men from high school sophomores to college age to visit us. As a seminary spiritual director and a priest of Des Moines, I would like to invite you personally to come to our open house Feb. 9-11. Get out of “park” with your vocation possibilities.

St. John Vianney Seminary is, first of all, not a building but 135 men who feel God might be calling them to priesthood.  They come to seminary check out that inner voice.  Seminary “works” if they decide to stay and if they decide to leave.

We live in the seminary building on the north side of campus.  We have our own chapel. The seminarians attend classes with all of the other students at St. Thomas University.  We also get to share the new gym and the new student center.
I am proud of the men here.  We have guys from the farm and city.  We have men who have been on duty in Afghanistan and Iraq.  We have men who have transferred from Purdue University, Iowa State University, University of Minnesota, etc.  They have played football for the university, run track, cross country, baseball, the university choir and orchestra.

If you have thought that God is calling you to the priesthood, come and check out the life in seminary and the kind of men who are here.  God bless you all.

Remember, “God does not call the qualified.  He qualifies those he calls.”
Check us out on the web:

     www.vianney.net  -- Main web page
    http://vianney.net/visitvianney    --Registration Form
    YouTube: http.//Vianney.net/video –This was produced by one of our seminarians.

For more information, you can contact Father John Acrea via email.

 

 

 

 See the press release below; worship aid for the service here. 

Tune in today, Friday, at 10 a.m. to 1150 KWKY Catholic Radio or the Spirit Catholic Radio Network to "In the Heartland With Bishop Pates" radio show as Bishop Richard Pates broadcasts live from Dowling Catholic High School and celebrates Catholic schools in our diocese. The annual Catholic Schools Week celebration begins Jan. 30.

This week's radio show guests include: Dowling Catholic High School parent Gabrielle Cahalan of Sacred Heart parish (West Des Moines), St. Malachy School (Creston) Principal John Walsh, St. Theresa School (Des Moines) eighth grader Ethan Kluesner, and Shelby County Catholic School (Harlan) eighth grader Samantha Schmitz.

KWKY, found at 1150 AM, broadcasts from Des Moines. Spirit Catholic Radio Network, at 102.7 FM, broadcasts out of Omaha. The show can also be found online at kwky.com and kvss.com. The show will be rebroadcasted on KWKY 1150 AM Saturday at noon and Sunday at 8 a.m., 11 a.m., 2 p.m., 5 p.m. and 9 p.m.

Join us for the annual diocesan Mass for Life this Saturday at 5 p.m. at Christ the King Church in Des Moines. Bishop Richard Pates will be the celebrant and the Mass is sponsored by Catholic Charities.

As the Mass is celebrated, many from our diocese will be traveling to Washington, D.C. for the annual March for Life on Monday. Buses coordinated by Iowans for LIFE will be carrying folks to the Capitol for the march, a rally and Mass.

The Mass follows a daylong pro-life workshop called Life is Precious, held at Christ the King Parish, coordinated by area parishes.

For more information on the Mass for Life, the prolife workshop and other initiatives of Catholic Charities Social Justice Consortium, click here.

During this National Vocation Awareness Week we remember our diocese's 14 seminarians who are heading back to school. Among them is Andrew Windschitl, who studies at St. Paul Seminary in St. Paul, Minn. In addition to classes several days a week, he goes to an area parish that gives seminarians opportunities to apply what they're learning in a real parish environment. Sometimes, he says, seminarians learn something entirely new at the parish that they didn't leearn in the classroom. "It's heartening to both work with and learn from the faithful as it is a true representation of what priesthood will be like," he said. For more information on the diocesan seminary program, call 515-237-5050.

Please pray for our 14 seminarians during this National Vocations Awareness Week! Among our seminarians is Trevor Chicoine. He entered the seminary program in 2009 right out of high school and currently is in his third year at St. Pius X Seminary at Loras College in Dubuque. Trevor majors in philosophy with a minor in liturgical music. He says that, in addition to the academic and pastoral formation, he's making a lot of friendships. The seminary has men you are into comouters, music and even a few NASCAR fans. If you're interested in exploring a vocation calling, contact the diocesan Vocations Office at 515-237-5050.

This is Vocations Awareness Week! Please keep in your prayers our seminarians who are discerning a vocation to serve God's people through the priesthood. Among our 14 seminarians is Fabian Moncada. He is in his third year of theology at St. Paul Seminary in St. Paul, Minn. In addition to his studies, he helps at St. Rita Parish, learning about administrative leadership. He will be ordained a transitional deacon on June 1 at Holy Trinity Church in Des Moines.

Hear from four local people who are ascending the famous Mount Kilimanjaro, the tallest point in Africa, this week with a group called Above and Beyond Cancer. Thanks to WHO Radio and 1150 KWKY Catholic Radio, we'll be able to hear from Msgr. Frank Bognanno, Deacon Dave Bartemes, Tim Meyer and Dr. Richard Deming talk of their adventure as it happens. They talked with WHO Radio on Sunday. On Wednesday, hear their stories in a special report on 1150 KWKY Catholic Radio (1150 AM) hosted by Jon Leonetti at 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. on Wednesday. Listen to WHO Radio(1040 AM) for the interviews throughout week. A big thank you to Mercy Medical Center, a major sponsor of the trip, for helping to arrange the interviews as well as getting photos and blog posts. Watch www.aboveandbeyondcancer.org or www.facebook.com/mercydesmoines for updates from those on the trip.

Thanks to Mercy Medical Center for sharing this image of Msgr. Frank Bognanno as he celebrates Mass on the eve of Epiphany Sunday in Africa. Msgr. Bognanno, a cancer survivor, is traveling with a group of cancer survivors and caregivers on a journey to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro. You can follow Msgr. Bognanno, retired Deacon Dave Bartemes and others on the trip at www.aboveandbeyondcancer.com or through Mercy's Facebook page www.facebook.com/mercydesmoines.

Mercy Cancer Center's Dr. Richard Deming is in Africa today with 18 cancer survivors on a journey to climb Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, Africa. Among those on the trip are Msgr. Frank Bognanno, pastor of Christ the King Parish in Des Moines, and retired Deacon Dave Bartemes, of St. Pius X Parish in Urbandale. Check out the group's website, follow their journey by blog and see the photos of their trip.

Bishop Richard Pates will be celebrating the annual diocesan Mass for Life on Saturday, Jan. 21 at 5 p.m. at Christ the King Church, 5711 SW 9th St. in Des Moines. The annual Mass for Life, organized by Catholic Charities Social Justice Consortium, promotes the Church's belief of the sanctity of life and dignity of the human person from conception to natural death. Jan. 21 marks the 39th anniversary of the U.S. Supreme Court's Roe v. Wade decision legalizing abortion. For more information, contact  Wendy, the consortium's respect life contact, or go to Catholic Charities website.

The Mass for Life follows a daylong retreat the same day called Life is Precious, organized by Des Moines area Catholic churches and also held at Christ the King Parish. Abortion survivor Melissa Ohden will be speaking, along with Father Guthrie Dolan on basic Catholic teaching on life issues. Deadline for registering is Jan. 18. Contact Wendy to register for this free retreat. Lunch will be provided. A free-will offering will be accepted.

On Jan. 14 the diocesan Department of Evangelization and Catechesis will be hosting a daylong evangelization workshop with Paulist Father Frank DeSiano. Father DeSiano is a nationally known and respected expert in the area of evangelization and currently serves as president of Paulist Evangelization Ministries. Father DeSiano will be speaking on two topics near and dear to our hearts: Parish and Mission and Serving the Absent Catholic. Clergy, parish staff, and those interested in evangelization ministry would surely benefit from the day. The workshop, which will be held at All Saints Parish in Stuart will begin at 9:30 p.m. and conclude by 2:30 p.m. Cost for the day is $5 to cover the cost of lunch. Pre-registration is required. To register contact Sherri Simmer, secretary for the Department of Evangelization and Catechesis at ssimmer@dmdiocese.org or call her at 515-237-5058.

Tune in to "In the Heartland with Bishop Pates" radio show this Friday at 10 a.m. to hear Des Moines Bishop Richard Pates and Omaha Archbishop George Lucas together sharing their thoughts about the biggest stories of 2011 and what they anticipate moving ahead in the New Year! The radio show can be found at 1150 KWKY Catholic Radio 1150 AM in central Iowa and Spirit Catholic Radio Network 102.7 FM in western Iowa. The show is repeated on KWKY on Saturday at noon and Sunday at 8 a.m., 11 a.m, 2 p.m., 5 p.m. and 9 p.m. Not near a radio? Tune in Friday at 10 a.m. to kwky.com or kvss.com.

1150 KWKY Catholic Radio will be celebrating retired Bishop Joseph Charron's birthday Dec. 30 with a daylong tribute to him. The station will air reflections he made through the years and tributes to him on his 72nd birthday. Tune in to 1150 AM throughout the day.

To send Bishop Charron a birthday card, you can put it to his attention at the Catholic Pastoral Center, 601 Grand Ave., Des Moines, IA 50309.

Reflection on answering the call

By Deacon Steve Reed
    
    Last Saturday morning, Jan, my wife, asked what I had planned for the day.  I told her I had some maintenance projects at the office.  She said she was going to Valley Junction where she volunteered to go shopping with a child, and they needed more volunteers.  I was not too excited.  I was not interested in a shopping trip.  Jan said, “Well, you do not have to go, if you do not want to. “   

     Well fellows, have you heard your spouse say, “We do not have to exchange anything on Saint Valentine’s Day?” You know better!
    Jan drove to the West Des Moines Community Center in Valley Junction where she volunteered me to accompany a child on a shopping trip.  I was assigned a young Hispanic girl about 6 or 7 years of age.  My assigned child could speak some English, but Spanish was her primary language. Jan was assigned an eight year old boy of Northern European descent.
    We all rode on a West Des Moines school bus to a Walmart.  The little girl had lost her list for gifts for her family.  She initially spoke of her little brother who was attending a day care.  She knew that she wanted to give him a particular toy for a gift.  But she had to think long and hard about what she wanted to give her father who working that Saturday and her mother.  She announced that she now remembered: a sweater for her mom and a pair of pants and a shirt for her dad.  Wow, she had no sizes or measurements!  We were allowed $60 credit to buy all the gifts for her family and of course, we needed to buy a toy for the little girl, as well.  

      We were allowed 45 minutes to do the actually shopping in the Jordan Creek Walmart.  I had never been in a super Walmart.  Talk about a challenge!  We were able to find a red sweater for mom and we purchased a black Wrangler shirt for her dad, plus a gift for her preschool brother and and one for the little girl.  Jan was doing her assignment with the little boy she was helping.
    We returned to the bus on time and we traveled back to the West Des Moines Community Center where we wrapped the gifts. Later, I had pizza with the little girl with whom I shopped. She spoke of her family.  I had never met her parents, but I could garner that they were working hard to make a new life for her and her little brother.  When the girl’s mother showed up, I introduced myself and later moved to the table where Jan and the little boy she was helping sat.
    The boy's mother worked four jobs while his father was attempting to be certified  a dirt bike mechanic. At age 8, the boy mowed lawns for money.  He said his mom’s car was a piece of junk and they had to use a piece of rope to pull a car door shut.
    Just before Jan and I were to accompany the boy and his sister to meet his uncle to pick them up, the little girl I'd helped came over to give me a big hug.  I may never see her again, but it was a great experience.
    This was a call to Jan and me to help the working poor in their struggles.  Not that I was totally oblivious as my own mom had to work one full-time and two part-time jobs to keep the wolves at bay while raising the four Reed children.
    I am confident that each and every one of us is called by God daily to do our part. We can do much more if we do not talk ourselves out of stretching ourselves.  Please think about such throughout this liturgical year and beyond.

Deacon Reed serves St. Mary of Nazareth Parish in Des Moines.

Novos on High, a gathering of young adults, will have a Christmas party tonight at St. Ambrose Cathedral. Reconciliation begins at 6 p.m. Rosary is at 6:30 p.m. and Mass begins at 7 p.m. A special collection will be taken to benefit Catholic Charities. After Mass, the group will celebrate Christmas at Legends. For more information, contact Tessa Schealler at 515-309-1936 or novos@dmdiocese.org.

Please keep in your prayers Sister Nan Ross (John Wiliam) of the Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, also known as the BVM sisters. Sister Nan died Monday at age 83 at Marian Hall in Dubuque. Burial is in the Mount Carmel cemetery. In the Diocese of Des Moines, Sister Nan served in ministry and as a tutor at Mt. Ayr Elementary School in Maloy from 1996-2009. In other parts of the country, she served in education, as a pastoral associate and director of religious education as well as assistant to the administrator of her religious community's motherhouse. In addition, she served as administrator of the BVM Center at Mount Carmel in Dubuque. Sister was born in Newton. She is survived by nieces, nephews and the Sisters of Charity, BVM, with whom she shared life for 64 years. Memorials may be given to the Sisters of Charity BVM Support Fund, 1100 Carmel Dr. Dubuque, IA 52003 or online at www.bvmcong.org/whatsnew_obits.cfm.

Bishop Pates spoke with Vatican Radio's Chris Altieri about recent federal legislation regarding religious freedom and the importance of it for bishops both at home and abroad. Check out this link, with the mp3 file of the broadcast included.

Watch for your copy of The Catholic Mirror coming this weekend. The December issue will include a followup on the diocesan Centennial Celebration, plus news on a parish sharing its facilities with a congregation of another faith, an update on construction projects around the diocese and news from our schools.

Watch your mailbox this weekend for the December issue of The Catholic Mirror. Look for news on :

• the Cristo Rey project,
• young adult outreach efforts,
• the cooperation between the Catholic church in Churchville and a Methodist congegation,
• the renovations at Christ the King Church in Des Moines,
• the launch of a capital campaign at St. Mary Church in Shenandoah and more.

Bishop Richard Pates, in a letter to parishes, wrote: "Last year, while visiting a senior-care facility, Pope Benedict noted, 'indeed, the provision of care for the elderly should be considered not so much an act of generosity as the repayment of a debt of gratitude.'" This weekend, Dec. 10 and 11, our parishes will be taking up the annual collection for the Retirement Fund for Religious, an opportunity for us to honor and thank thousands of senior Catholic sisters, brothers and religious order priests for their faithful service.

Although we may not always realize it, we are all beneficiaries of the tremendous contributions these religious have made to the Church in the United States. Certainly in our own diocese, we were blessed by the presence of women religious in our schools and hospitals long before the Diocese of Des Moines was officially established. "As I reflect on the dedication of our senior religious, I recall how they shaped my own faith in my home archdiocese and for all the ways our diocese has been blessed by their service," wrote Bishop Pates.

"Today, many religious communities struggle to care for their elderly members. Increasing health care costs and decreased income make it increasingly difficult to provide the care they so richly deserve. Our contributions to this collection allow us to join hands with those religious communities in support of their senior members. In doing so, we also are supportive of their continued ministries in our midst.

Please join me in financial support for the Retirement Fund for Religious and in praying for God’s continued blessing on our nation’s religious communities," he said.
 

Catholic parishes in the Diocese Des Moines are planning celebrations to commemorate the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe on and around the feast day, which is Monday, Dec. 12. 

The feast is a significant cultural and religious event for Hispanic people as they honor Our Lady of Guadalupe as Patroness of the Americas.

On the morning of Dec. 9, 1531, the Blessed Mother appeared to a Mexican Indian named Juan Diego who was on his way to Mass and catechesis in the Catholic faith. She asked Diego to go to the local bishop and give him her message to build a temple, identifying herself as Our Lady, the Mother of God. When the bishop did not believe Diego’s story she asked Diego to take a sign to show him. The sign consisted of roses of all colors, which Diego carried on his cloak, or ‘tilma.’ The bishop then believed upon seeing the cloak and the image of Our Lady of Guadalupe. The image remains clear today and is displayed in a church in Mexico City.

The opportunities for commemoration of the feast day in the diocese are numerous, including many in the Des Moines area.

Our Lady of the Americas Parish, 1271 E. 9th St. in Des Moines, will honor Our Lady of Guadalupe with 12:30 p.m. Mass on Sunday, Dec. 11, and a tamale sale following Mass. A novena will take place at 4:30 p.m. Sunday, as will 6 p.m. Mass, and a re-enactment of the apparitions at 8:30 p.m. At 10 p.m. Sunday a procession will depart Our Lady of the Americas for St. Ambrose Cathedral Parish, 607 High St., and culminate with midnight Mass celebrated by Bishop Richard Pates at the cathedral. The Mass will be followed by las mañanitas (morning singing). Our Lady of the Americas will also celebrate Mass for the feast on Monday, Dec. 12, at 5:30 and 7:30 p.m.

Other Des Moines-area parishes have festivities planned as well.

              Sacred Heart Parish, 1627 Grand Ave. in West Des Moines, will celebrate Mass at 7 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 12. The Mass will include a re-enactment of the apparitions and a procession bringing roses to Our Lady. A reception follows with hot chocolate, sweet bread and music from Los Niño de Tepayac.

The Basilica of St. John, 1915 University Ave. in Des Moines, will have los cavallitos (traditional dances), from 5-7 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 11, followed by the Rosary at 7 p.m. and a procession around the church at 8 p.m., concluding with Mass at 9 p.m.

Christ the King Parish, 5711 SW Ninth St. in Des Moines, will celebrate Mass at 1 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 12.

On the west end of the diocese, Corpus Christi Parish in Council Bluffs continues a novena begun Saturday, Dec. 3, through Sunday, Dec. 11. Las mañanitas will begin at 5 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 11, followed by hot chocolate and sweet bread. Mass will begin at 2 p.m. on Sunday, followed by food and dancing. A mariachi band will accompany the dancing at Mass and the reception following. 

Elsewhere in the Des Moines diocese, St. Patrick Parish in Lenox will celebrate Mass at 7 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 12.

St. Bernard Parish in Osceola will celebrate midnight Mass on Sunday, Dec. 11.

In Perry, St. Patrick Parish will celebrate Mass on Monday, Dec. 12 at 6 p.m. followed by a potluck dinner in the St. Patrick School gymnasium. A procession will be held from the church to the dinner, where there will be music and reading of the story of Juan Diego. Free-will donations will be accepted.

Bishop Pates is offering a vocations retreat Dec. 16-18 for men, age 18 to 40, who are interested in the priesthood. The retreat will take place at the Creighton University Retreat Center in Griswold. There will be communal and private prayer, Eucharistic adoration, Mass, and presentations by Bishop Pates. A retreat fee of $25 is requested, however, no one will be turned away for financial reasons. Contact the Office of Vocations at (515) 237-5061.

Bishop Richard Pates and retired Bishop Joseph Charron will read the Christmas story to children at 2 p.m. and at 3:30 p.m. during Catholic Charities annual No Room at the Inn event this Sunday at the Catholic Pastoral Center, 601 Grand Ave. in DM. It is hoped that the event inspires people to join in efforts to help lift people out of poverty with dignity.

Cristo Rey Des Moines project on indefinite hold

      After two years of intensive research, community discussion and study, it has been determined that the proposed Cristo Rey Des Moines project be put on indefinite hold with the Cristo Rey Network until additional philanthropic financing can be identified.
     Cristo Rey is a college preparatory high school in the Catholic tradition exclusively for low income students of all faiths whose needs are not being fully met in a traditional public school. Cristo Rey Network schools employ an innovative Corporate Work Study Program that provides students with real world work experiences.
     With the support of a congressional grant, the Diocese of Des Moines began a feasibility study in September 2009. The study was conducted to determine if there was a need, interest from students and parents, and support from the business community based on the guidelines from the Cristo Rey Network (CRN) to establish a Cristo Rey school in Des Moines.
     In the fall of 2010, the CRN approved the Des Moines feasibility study, certifying that there was sufficient need, interest among parents and students, and support from businesses to make Cristo Rey a success. Pending appropriate and sufficient funding, Cristo Rey Des Moines could be established.
     Even though the feasibility study was approved, there was not sufficient philanthropic support. The Cristo Rey Network requires $2 million upfront funds for the first year of operation. Based on guidelines from the CRN, the local Cristo Rey Advisory Board determined it would need a total of $10 million in start-up funds for the first five years of operation. In addition, a basic endowment of $10 million is needed to sustain the school. The endowment is necessary to create an ongoing, stable model that does not rely too heavily on annual fundraising.
     Thus, the total amount needed to be raised is $20 million for viable operation. In the Des Moines community, between $4 million and $5 million dollars for this purpose was identified.
     “Having a solid financial foundation for a Cristo Rey Des Moines project is essential to ensure its long term viability,” said Bishop Richard Pates. “I am convinced that our community would benefit from a Cristo Rey school and plan to continue to advocate for needed educational institutions for children in our community who have the capacity but presently lack opportunity.”
     Bishop Pates further noted: “The feasibility study identified approximately 8,000 students in the greater Des Moines area who qualify for the reduced and free lunch program. This is the target audience of a Cristo Rey School. According to our study, 360 of the 8,000 students benefit from a program that is transformative.”
     The opportunity for capable but underprivileged youth has been valuable in other Cristo Rey Schools. The possibility of having a local Cristo Rey school is on indefinite hold should one or more donors choose to support this unique model of school which, over time, could benefit thousands of deserving young people.
 

     More than 300 nativity scenes from around the world will be on display this Sunday, Dec. 4 from 1-5 p.m. at 6th and Grand Avenue in downtown Des Moines. The exhibition of nativities is the centerpiece of events hosted by Catholic Charities intended to inspire others to join in efforts to help lift people out of poverty with dignity.

    Working together to reduce poverty with an emphasis on respect and dignity is what the work of Catholic Charities is all about, says Nancy Galeazzi, executive director. “At Catholic Charities, we address poverty not only in terms of income, but also barriers like a lack of emotional and spiritual resources or education. We work to help people reach their full potential,” she said.

     Admission to the event is a gift of a personal care item or cash donation to help people served through Catholic Charities Poverty Reduction Programs: St. Joseph Emergency Family Shelter, St. Mary Family Center, Hispanic Community Outreach and Refugee Resettlement.

     No Room at the Inn is part of Catholic Charities Week 2011 held Nov. 28-Dec.4. “Together, we can help lift people out of poverty with dignity” is the theme of the week-long poverty awareness campaign organized by Catholic Charities, which serves the 23 counties of southwest Iowa. Catholic Charities Week and No Room at the Inn festivities include:

• Bare Essentials Campaign- Schools, businesses, churches and individuals can collect personal care items to help people living below the poverty line.
• No Room at the Inn Fundraising Reception – Friday, Dec. 2 from 5-8 p.m.
• Poverty Simulation – Saturday, Dec. 3 from 9 a.m. to  Noon
• Musical Open House and Nativity Exhibition – Sunday, Dec. 4 from 1-5 p.m.

    For a full schedule of weekend events and information about Catholic Charities Poverty Reduction Programs go to www.CatholicCharitiesDM.org or call 515-237-5078.

     Founded in 1924, Catholic Charities in the Diocese of Des Moines is dedicated to offering help and hope to those in need throughout central and southwest Iowa.  Catholic Charities, a United Way agency, provides pregnancy counseling and adoption services, individual and family counseling, Hispanic community outreach and refugee resettlement services. Other Catholic Charities programs include St. Joseph Emergency Family Shelter, Phoenix House Domestic Violence Shelter and St. Mary Family Center. For information about Catholic Charities of Des Moines, its programs and services, please visit www.catholiccharitiesdm.org.

Please keep in your prayers Father James Polich, pastor of St. Augustin Church in Des Moines, who passed away Sunday after a battle with cancer. See his obituary here. Visitation will begin at 2 p.m. on Tuesday at St. Augustin, where friends and family will receive friends from 5-7 p.m. A vigil service will begin at 7 p.m. Mass of Christian burial will be at 10 a.m. on Wdnesday, Nov. 23, at St. Augustin Church, 545 42nd St. in Des Moines. Burial will be at Glendale Cemetery in Des Moines.

Father Jim Polich was born on Christmas Eve of 1944. His home parish was St. Joseph in Des Moines. He was ordained a priest in 1971 by Bishop Maurice Dingman in Harlan, Iowa.

He had attended Dowling Catholic High School and Immaculate Conception Seminary in Conception, Mo. He held a master’s in divinity from St. John’s University in Collegeville, Minn. and a doctorate in theology from Fordham University in New York.

Father Polich was a teacher. He taught at Glenwood State School on the west end of our diocese. For 9 years from the late 1970s into the early 1980s, he served on the faculty of Dowling Catholic High School and the St. Joseph Education Center as resource person in theology, religious education and continuing education for adults. In 1986, he helped develop the Creighton Certificate Program, a distance education effort with Creighton University. The diocese is a partner in that program, which just celebrated its 25th anniversary. He returned became the board chair of the St. Joseph Education Center in 2008 and has been serving in that capacity since then. Fr. Polich’s role in education went outside the diocese as well. He served the theology department at Fordham University in New York for two and a half years and for five years was on the faculty of Conception Seminary in Conception, Mo.

Father Polich was a pastor. Immediately after ordination, he served Visitation parish briefly. He went on to serve St. Mary Church in Hamburg, a parish in the far southwest corner of our diocese, for three years in the mid-1970s. He also served St. Mary in Avoca and St. Patrick in Walnut for six years in the 1990s. Since 2000, he has served at St. Augustin Parish in Des Moines.

Father Polich had an interest in ecumenical efforts and for years, assisted with the coordination of the annual Catholic/Lutheran reconciliation event that occurred every autumn for about 30 years. This gathering, among Catholics and Lutherans, fostered interfaith dialogue and was a direct result of the pope’s visit to Iowa in 1979.

Please keep in your prayers Father James Polich, pastor of St. Augustin Church in Des Moines, who passed away Sunday after a battle with cancer. See his obituary here. Visitation will begin at 2 p.m. on Tuesday at St. Augustin, where friends and family will receive friends from 5-7 p.m. A vigil service will begin at 7 p.m. Mass of Christian burial will be at 10 a.m. on Wdnesday, Nov. 23, at St. Augustin Church, 545 42nd St. in Des Moines. Burial will be at Glendale Cemetery in Des Moines.

Father Jim Polich was born on Christmas Eve of 1944. His home parish was St. Joseph in Des Moines. He was ordained a priest in 1971 by Bishop Maurice Dingman in Harlan, Iowa.

He had attended Dowling Catholic High School and Immaculate Conception Seminary in Conception, Mo. He held a master’s in divinity from St. John’s University in Collegeville, Minn. and a doctorate in theology from Fordham University in New York.

Father Polich was a teacher. He taught at Glenwood State School on the west end of our diocese. For 9 years from the late 1970s into the early 1980s, he served on the faculty of Dowling Catholic High School and the St. Joseph Education Center as resource person in theology, religious education and continuing education for adults. In 1986, he helped develop the Creighton Certificate Program, a distance education effort with Creighton University. The diocese is a partner in that program, which just celebrated its 25th anniversary. He returned became the board chair of the St. Joseph Education Center in 2008 and has been serving in that capacity since then. Fr. Polich’s role in education went outside the diocese as well. He served the theology department at Fordham University in New York for two and a half years and for five years was on the faculty of Conception Seminary in Conception, Mo.

Father Polich was a pastor. Immediately after ordination, he served Visitation parish briefly. He went on to serve St. Mary Church in Hamburg, a parish in the far southwest corner of our diocese, for three years in the mid-1970s. He also served St. Mary in Avoca and St. Patrick in Walnut for six years in the 1990s. Since 2000, he has served at St. Augustin Parish in Des Moines.

Father Polich had an interest in ecumenical efforts and for years, assisted with the coordination of the annual Catholic/Lutheran reconciliation event that occurred every autumn for about 30 years. This gathering, among Catholics and Lutherans, fostered interfaith dialogue and was a direct result of the pope’s visit to Iowa in 1979.

Are you wondering what the changes in the Mass will look like thanks to the revised Roman Missal? Check out the three new teaching Mass videos that Our Lady's Immaculate Heart parish in Ankeny developed in collaboration with the Worship Office. They're posted on Vimeo. Thanks to Rodger Routh of Our Lady’s Immaculate Heart Parish for the excellent work on producing the videos, and thanks to Msgr. Steve Orr and all from the parish who participated in the teaching Mass.

 Congratulations to Bishop Pates! Yesterday he was voted by his fellow bishops to be chair of the Committee on International Justice & Peace of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. The committee assists the bishops, both collectively and individually, in advancing the social mission of the Church on international justice and peace through policy development, advocacy, education, outreach and acts of ecclesial solidarity. The committee advises the bishops on international public policy issues, especially integral human development, human rights, religious freedom and peace.

What’s next now that the centennial is a fond memory? Catholic Charities is gearing up for its big No Room at the Inn event. This year, it will be Dec. 2-4 at the Catholic Pastoral Center, 6^th and Grand. Right now, they’re looking for people who are willing to share their nativities with the hundreds of people who come to see the exhibit. Have your nativity set join more than 300 on display. These include sets from around the world. Last year, there were sets from Ecuador, El Salvador and Africa. Catholic Charities has a team of people dedicated to cataloging and keeping your nativity safe until and throughout the event. For more information, contact Trish at Catholic Charities or call 515-237-5078.

Want to see pictures from the succesful diocesan Centennial Celebration this past Sunday? If you're not a fan of the diocesan Facebook page, you're missing out! Join nearly 500 people staying in touch with the latest from the Diocese of Des Moines through Facebook. Check out the many pictures from last Sunday's Centennial Celebration. We've posted photos of the children's programming, the wildly successful Youth Rally at the Polk County Convention Complex and the events at Hy-Vee Hall. Stay on top of news from the diocese by being a fan.

Creighton Programs in Ministry

Bishop Richard Pates and the diocesan Vocations Office is in the midst of visiting all regions of the diocese to hold Andrew Dinners. These are opportunities for young men of the diocese to visit with Bishop Pates in an informal setting for prayer, to hear his and area priests' vocation stories, and to ask questions about what a life as a priest is like. For more information, contact Father David Muenchrath, director of the diocesan Vocations Office or check out the diocesan Vocations website.

The religious superiors and bishops of Iowa gathered recently as part of a 40-year tradition to get together once a year and discuss issues pertinent to the ministries of the dioceses and religious communities. The gathering was in Des moines this year in celebration of the 100th anniversary of the diocese.

Be a Part of History: Diocesan Centennial

Celebration this Sunday, Nov. 6

The disabled and elderly are encouraged to use special transportation for this Sunday's Centennial Celebration. A parking lot directly north of Veterans Auditorium and south of Crocker Street is designated for the disabled and elderly. Mercy Medical Center is providing a shuttle service taking people from that parking lot to the Third Street entrance of Hy-Vee Hall for the Centennial Celebration. Thank you to Mercy Medical Center for helping! 

   A collection will be taken during this Sunday's diocesan Centennial Celebration Mass at Hy-Vee Hall for the benefit of our brothers and sisters in El Salvador.

   Bishop Richard Pates has established a relationship with the Diocese of Zacatecaluca in El Salvador. Our diocese now has two Salvadoran priests serving here and a man in the seminary program with the intention of serving our diocese after his ordination to priesthood.

    In addition, we have three parishes that have relationships with parishes in El Salvador. The local parishes are: Assumption in Granger, St. Boniface in Waukee and St. Catherine of Siena in Des Moines.

   During the Centennial Celebration Mass, half of the gifts collected will go to the seminary in the Diocese of Zacatecaluca. The other half will be divided into thirds and sent to the three communities supported by our three parishes.

   Come to the diocesan Centennial Celebration this Sunday at Hy-Vee Hall in Des Moines and, through your gift during the collection, support Catholics in El Salvador.

Iowa Hawkeye Defensive Tackle Dominic Alvis, of the northwest part of our diocese, is among those in the diocesan video "Witnessing to Christ" who share their experiences of trying to live the gospel in every moment. Alvis says at one point after going to college, he realized he could throw up his hands and give up in times of stress, or throw up his hands and ask for God's help. Come to the diocesan Nov. 6 Centennial Celebration and see the video. Be inspired. No registration is necessary if you're coming for the afternoon activities of honoring parishes, watching the video and being a part of a festive Mass. Afternoon activities begin at 2 p.m. For more information, check out the diocesan website here.
 

Premiering at the diocesan Nov. 6 Centennial Celebration will be a video, "Witnessing to Christ," that features six lay people from across the Diocese of Des Moines talking about what it means to witness to Christ and the challenges of doing it in every moment. Emilio Nieto, of Des Moines, talks about how he found himself going to Mass each weekend and hearing the readings, seeing the consecration, but not really understanding what was happening until he had an awakening to Christ. Wanting to pursue that further, he asked a priest about how he could live what he sees happening at Mass. Emilio has become involved in his church and relies on the values of his faith, such as treating others fairly, in trying to be a witness to the gospel.  Come to the diocesan Nov. 6 Centennial Celebration and see the video. Be inspired. No registration is necessary if you're coming for the afternoon activities of honoring parishes, watching the video and being a part of a festive Mass. Afternoon activities begin at 2 p.m. For more information, check out the diocesan website here.

Casey's General Store President Bob Myers says his faith is reflected in everything he does. Myers is one of six lay people from throughout the diocese featured in a video premiering at the diocesan Nov. 6 Centennial Celebration called "Witnessing to Christ." In the video, they talk about what it means to witness to Christ and the challenges of doing it in every moment. Bob, who came into full communion with the Church through the RCIA process, says his business and ethical decisions reflect the values of his faith such as respecting others. Come to the diocesan Nov. 6 Centennial Celebration and see the video. Be inspired. No registration is necessary if you're coming for the afternoon activities of honoring parishes, watching the video and being a part of a festive Mass. Afternoon activities begin at 2 p.m. For more information, check out the diocesan website here.
 

Premiering at the diocesan Nov. 6 Centennial Celebration will be a video, "Witnessing to Christ," that features six lay people from across the Diocese of Des Moines talking about what it means to witness to Christ and the challenges of doing it in every moment. Kathleen Kilnoski, of Council Bluffs, says it was in her college years when she saw her life as being in service to others. Now as a judge, she shares specific examples of how she has been of help to others. Come to the diocesan Nov. 6 Centennial Celebration and see the video. Be inspired. No registration is necessary if you're coming for the afternoon activities of honoring parishes, watching the video and being a part of a festive Mass. Afternoon activities begin at 2 p.m. For more information, check out the diocesan website here.
 

Drake University Athletic Director Sandy Hatfield Clubb is among six lay people featured in "Witnessing to Christ," a video premiering at the diocesan Nov. 6 Centennial Celebration. Focusing on the last step in the evangelization proceess, "Witnessing to Christ" shares the personal experiences of six people in the Diocese of Des Moines who talk about what it means to witness to Christ and the challenges of doing it in every moment. Sandy, of Holy Trinity Parish in Des Moines, takes a unique approach using her skills as an administrator. Come to the Nov. 6 Centennial Celebration at Hy-Vee Hall for the afternoon's video and festive Mass. Be inspired. No registration is necessary if you're coming for the afternoon activities beginning at 2 p.m. For more information, check out the diocesan website here.

Premiering at the diocesan Nov. 6 Centennial Celebration will be a video, "Witnessing to Christ," that features six lay people from across the Diocese of Des Moines talking about what it means to witness to Christ and the challenges of doing it in every moment. Mike Curran, of Chariton, Iowa, is among those featured. With four kids and a large agricultural operation, finding time to serve God can be a struggle. But, Mike says, he's been blessed by God and feels called to give back through stewardship of his time. Come to the diocesan Nov. 6 Centennial Celebration and see the video. Be inspired. No registration is necessary if you're coming for the afternoon activities of honoring parishes, watching the video and being a part of a festive Mass. Afternoon activities begin at 2 p.m. For more information, check out the diocesan website here.

Antonio Banuelos, of St. Ambrose Cathedral parish in Des Moines, will be among those sharing their experiences of Living and Following Christ during the diocese's 100th anniversary celebration Nov. 6 at Hy-Vee Hall. The day's theme is evangelization and the program for the day takes a closer look at the parts of the evangelization process: Awakening in Christ, Living in Christ, Following Christ and Witnessing Christ. Headliner Archbishop Emeritus Harry Flynn, of the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis,  will focus on Awakening in Christ. Immediately following will be Antonio, along with Kathy Regan and Ron and Maria Vakulskas Rosmann talking about their perspectives on Living and Following Christ. Don't be left out of this amazing experience as we come together as a diocesan faith community for the Nov. 6 Centennial Celebration. Register here or by calling 515-237-5097.

Ron and Maria Vakulskas Rosmann, of Shelby County in the northwest part of our diocese, will be among the speakers sharing their experiences of Living and Following Christ during the diocese's 100th anniversary celebration Nov. 6 at Hy-Vee Hall. With an overarching theme of evangelization, the day's focus will be on the parts of the evangelization process familiar with those who were part of the parish-based On a Journey Together program. Archbishop Emeritus Harry Flynn, of the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis, will deliver the keynote address on Awakening to Christ. The Rosmanns will be among those sharing their thoughts on Living and Following Christ. Let us know you're coming for this once-in-a-lifetime experience by registering here or calling 515-237-5097.

Kathy Regan, of St. Patrick Parish in Imogene in the southwest part of our diocese, will be among four people who will speak at the diocese's 100th anniversary celebration following keynoter Archbishop Emeritus Harry Flynn. Regan, along with Antonio Banuelos and Ron and Maria Vakulskas Rosmann, will talk about the second and third steps in the evangelization proceess: Living and Following Christ. Regan, a certified spiritual adviser, long has been involved with youth ministry and at St. Albert School in Council Bluffs. More recently, she has become more active with Catholic Relief Services, serving as our diocese's ambassador for trade products such as coffee and chocolate. Take a moment and let us know if you're coming to the Nov. 6 Centennial Celebration by following this link or calling 515-237-5097.

Archbishop Emeritus Harry Flynn, of the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis, will be the keynote speaker at the diocesan Nov. 6 Centennial Celebration at Hy-Vee Hall. With an overarching theme of evangelization for the day, Archbishop Flynn will focus on the first step called Awakening to Christ. Those who were part of the five-season On a Journey Together parish-based process will be familiar with the idea of awakening to Christ and his role in our lives. To register for the diocese's 100th anniversary celebration on Nov. 6 please sign up here or call 515-237-5097.

   Catholic Charities USA, among the nation’s largest human services and disaster response networks, hosted leaders from Catholic Charities agencies across the country in Washington, D.C. October 13 -14 for events including a roundtable discussion and a White House policy briefing.  CCUSA is a leading voice in the conversation about how to better serve the millions of Americans living in poverty.

   Local Catholic Charities Executive Director Nancy Galeazzi and Director of Poverty Reduction Sol Varisco were there. 

   On Thursday, Oct. 13, CCUSA held a roundtable discussion at the National Press Club, moderated by The National Journal’s Major Garrett, about the principles needed to reform the safety net in an economically sustainable way that better addresses the needs of individuals. 

    On Friday, Oct. 14^th, 160 leaders from Catholic Charities agencies across the country traveled to the White House for a policy briefing to exchange ideas on human services, housing, immigration and the economy.

    White House Director Jon Carson of the Office of Public Engagement said, “Catholic Charities USA is an incredible network of social service organizations that support our neighbors in need. We’re looking forward to having CCUSA leaders from around the country here at the White House for a day of discussion and collaboration as we work towards our shared goals.”

    This meeting comes on the heels of the release of Census bureau data showing historic numbers of Americans living in poverty, CCUSA’s hosting of the first Annual National Poverty Summit in Fort Worth, Texas, and the re-introduction of The National Opportunity and Community Renewal Act, (NOCRA) S. 1565, legislation developed by CCUSA to identify long-term solutions to the nation’s poverty crisis.

    Nancy Galeazzi, executive director of Catholic Charities in the Diocese of Des Moines, said, “It is truly an honor to be part of these conversations. Locally, we work with people living in poverty every day and to be able to bring their stories of hardship and struggle into conversations is essential for the development of meaningful solutions.”

   Last year alone, Catholic Charities in the Diocese of Des Moines, Iowa helped more than 25,000 people in central and southwest Iowa. Programs include: Counseling Services, St. Joseph Emergency Family Shelter, St. Mary Family Center, Phoenix House Domestic Violence Shelter and Sexual Abuse Program, A New Beginning Adoption & Pregnancy Counseling, Hispanic Community Outreach and Refugee Resettlement. Catholic Charities is a United Way agency.

The annual, statewide Iowa Institute for Social Action will be this Saturday at St. Patrick Church in Iowa City. The one-day conference, sponsored by all four Iowa dioceses, will focus on how the respect for life and dignity of the human person is a fundamental belief and basis for all of the social doctrine of the Catholic Church. The keynote speaker will be Helene Paharik, of the Diocese of Pittsburgh. For more information, or to register, go to www.iowasocialaction.org.

A number of churches have held or are planning to hold a pet blessing in celebration of the feast of St. Francis of Assisi, patron of animals. The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops' Catholic Household Blessings & Prayers lists the following blessing for pets and animals:

O God,

you have done all things wisely;

in your goodness you have made us in your image

and given us care over other living things.

Reach out with your right hand

and gran that these animals may serve our needs

and that your  bounty in the reosurces of this life

may move us to seek more confidently

the goal of eternal life.

We ask this through Christ our Lord,

Amen

Life Chain, a prayerful witness for life, was this past Sunday. In Des Moines, folks from many churches lined Merle Hay Road to provide a prayerful witness and encourage life. Catholic churches represented included St. Theresa, Basilica of St. John, St. Anthony, St. Joseph, St. Mary of Nazareth and Holy Trinity.

A Mass will be celebrated at the Basilica of St. John in honor the Blessed  Pope John Paul II on Sunday, Oct. 9 at 10:30 a.m. The Mass is honoring the late pontiff because he designated St. John Church a basilica. The Mass is also in honor of the Diocese of Des Moines centennial. Bishop Richard Pates will be the celebrant and Father Aquinas Nichols will concelebrate. A potluck will follow in the parish hall.

Now is the time to register online for the Iowa Institute for Social Action's upcoming workshop Oct. 8. Featured speaker is Helene Paharik, of the Dioces eof Pittsburgh. She plans to share with attendees a vision of hope of the Church promoting the dignity of the human person as one body united in love. The event will be at St. Patrick Church in Iowa City and its sponsored by all four diocese of Iowa plus the Iowa Catholic Conference. For more information, go to iowasocialaction.org.

Bishop Richard Pates shows vestments gifted to him by the bishops and people of Ivory Coast during his recent trip to Africa. He wore them during a Mass of Holy Spirit that Dowling Catholic High School celebrates at the beginning of every school year. Pictured with Bishop Pates are JoJo Jok and Brody Adams.

This weekend there will be a special collection for seminarians. All registered parishioners will receive a letter and brochure in the mail from Bishop Richard Pates prior to the collection. Gifts to this collection support the education and formation costs associated with seminarians. You can make gifts at the special collection in your parish or by going online to dmdiocese.org/donate/cfm and selecting the Seminarian Special Collection. Please be generous. Thank you!

The diocesan schools office shares information on a good opportunity. U.S. Cellular's campaign Calling All Communities is giving schools an opportunity to win a top prize of $150,000 or secondary prizes of $50,000. Go to a U.S. Cellular store and get a code, then input it at uscellular.com and vote for your school. No purchase is necessary and you don't have to be a U.S. Cellular customer to vote. Caroll Kuemper Catholic High School and Central Lutheran School each won $100,000 in the past two years. Vote for your Catholic school by Oct. 6.

The Andrew Dinner scheduled for Sept. 22 in Guthrie Center has been cancelled. To learn more about a variety of upcoming opportunities for discerning one's vocation, check out vocationsonline.com or the latest issue of The Catholic Mirror, which has a calendar of upcoming Vocations events.

The diocesan Campus Ministry program and the St. Joseph Educational Center have invited Dr Peter Kreeft, noted Catholic  author, professor and lecturer, to Des Moines for a number of speaking opportunities this Thursday and Friday. His schedule is as follows:  
 

               The horror of the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001 continue to be remembered at Christ the King Parish in Des Moines. On that day 10 years ago, the parish’s pastor, Msgr. Frank Bognanno, was near the U.S. Capitol speaking at a conference to military priests of the East Coast. A bishop stepped out of the room, then returned with a somber look. He told the group one of the Twin Towers had been struck by a plane. The group turned a television on and watched as a second plane struck the second tower. Immediately, the priests celebrated Mass for the terrorists and then the priests who served at the Pentagon and at the U.S. Navy base in Norfolk, Va. rushed back to the people they served. When he returned to Iowa, Msgr. Bognanno was determined that his parish would celebrate a Mass every Tuesday from then on for the conversion of terrorists. He plans to continue that 10-year run of Tuesday afternoon Masses on Sept. 11 with Mass at 5:30 p.m. at Christ the King Church. All are welcome to attend.

January may seem like a long way off, but if you're interested in going to the Youth Rally & Mass for Life as part of the annual pilgrimage to the March for Life in Washington, D.C. this coming January, you need to register before the end of this month! The Diocese of Des Moines is coordinating a youth pilgrimage in conjunction with Iowans for L.I.F.E. It is critical to register by Sept. 29 so the diocesan liaison can order tickets. If you've already made plans to attend the youth rally but haven't contacted the diocesan liaison or your parish youth minister to get tickets, please contact Tessa Schealler, our diocesan liaison for the event, at 515-309-1936 or tessa@stmcenter.com. You can register through Iowans for L.I.F.E. for the trip, but tickets for the Youth Rally (which includes the Mass for Life) at the Verizon Center have to be ordered through Tessa. Tickets are not required for the Mass at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. Check out the website for the St. Thomas More Center for registration forms, health forms and more information about signing up for this pilgrimage.

KWKY Catholic Radio 1150 AM is boosting the airtime for "In the Heartland with Bishop Pates," a weekly, hour-long radio show that airs live on Fridays at 10 a.m. on KWKY and Spirit Catholic Radio Network on 102.7 FM out of Omaha. The show is streamed on kvss.com and kwky.com so you can hear it online. Now, the show can be heard multiple times on the radio over weekends. KWKY is replaying the show on Saturdays at noon and four times throughout the day on Sundays: 8 a.m., 11 a.m., 2 p.m. and 5 p.m.

The show features co-hosts Des Moines Bishop Richard Pates and theologian Dr. Thomas Neal, director of the St. Joseph Educational Center in West Des Moines. The show begins with Bishop Pates and Dr. Neal sharing their thoughts on current events, then interviewing a newsmaker or person of interest on the topic of the day. In the last 15 minutes, Bishop Pates takes questions. Call 515-223-1150 about 10:45 a.m. on Fridays, or e-mail questions to communications@dmdiocese.org.

The Diocese of Des Moines has opened up a phone line specifically for registering people attending the Nov. 6 Centennial Celebration at Hy-Vee Hall. Bring your family! Bring some friends! It's not every day our diocese celebrates its' 100th anniversary! You can register online at dmdiocese.org/100 or call the diocese at 515-237-5097 to register. Putting in your registration is critical so the diocese can order enough box lunches and have the appropriate number of chaperones for daycare and children's programming. Register early and mark your calendar now for the diocesan Centennial Celebration on Nov. 6!

Today is Bishop's Catholic Charities Golf Classic at Echo Valley Country Club, begining with 11:30 a.m. lunch and 1 p.m. shotgun start. The Church Challenge is back. Which parish do you think will nab the trophy this year?

On Sunday, Bishop Richard Pates will celebrate the Rite of Candidacy for three of our seminarians. They are: Matthew Krastel, of St. Mary of Nazareth in Des Moines; Luis Mejia, of the Diocese of Zacatecoluca, El Salvador; and Andrew Windschitl, of St. Francis of Assisi in West Des Moines. All are invited to the rite, which will be celebrated at St. Francis of Assisi Church in West Des Moines at 11:15 a.m. What does candidacy mean? Those who experience this rite will now move to a time of education and formation in preparation for ordination. The Rite of Candidacy is affirmation that the seminarians have given themselves to the best of their ability to the process of formation. The next major step is ordination to the transitional diaconate prior to ordination to the priesthood.

Get a jump on enjoying the Iowa State Fair this Sunday by starting early with Mass on the fairgrounds. Mass will be celebrated on Sunday at 7:15 a.m. in Pioneer Hall.

                The Diocese of Des Moines kicked off online registration  today for the big Nov. 6 Centennial Celebration at Hy-Vee Hall.

Teresa Dunbar, a parishioner of Sacred Heart parish in West Des Moines, will be leaving soon for Kenya thanks to Catholic Relief Services. For a long time, Dunbar has wanted to do more for the people of Africa. She now gets her chance with CRS to visit Kenya and get a first-hand look at the needs. Follow her journey through her posts on Facebook and see if she finds a way not only she, but others, can have a role in helping the lives of others. Dunbar is a member of the diocesan CRS Advocacy Team, which is raising awareness of hunger around the world.

The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops and Bishop Richard Pates encourage pastors and parishioners to support a special collection sometime in September for the people of East Africa, who are experiencing famine as a result of drought. More than 12 million people in Kenya, Somalia and Ethiopia are in need of humanitarian assistance to cope with what many are calling the worst drought in decades. "As we move into the season of harvest and thank God for what our land produces here in the heartland, may we keep in mind those who struggle every day for enough food to survive," said Bishop Pates. Your parish may have a special collection for African Famine relief sometime in September or you can make a contribution through the diocesan website. All funds collected will be sent to Catholic Relief Services. CRS has had people assisting East Africa for many years. Staff is there now helping with famine relief.

Today, Aug. 12, is the 100th birthday of the Diocese of Des Moines. On this day in 1911, Pope Pius X established our diocese, which had been a part of the Diocese of Davenport and, prior to that, the Archdiocese of Dubuque. We encourage you to take a few moments today and pray our diocesan Centennial prayer.

Holy God,

You have filled diocesan hearts with the fire of your love for 100 years.

We know you are present with us now

We trust you will be with us always.

Holy Spirit,

Continue to awaken us so that we may witness to the presence of Jesus,

In this moment and in the years to come.

Lord,

Renew us constantly so that our homes, parishes, communities and world

Are transformed into your kingdom on earth

Where peace and justice reign

Forever and ever

Amen.

Join us as a diocesan community on November 6 at Hy-Vee Hall in Des Moines for a daylong faith conference and festive Mass capping a year of celebration for the Diocese of Des Moines' 100th anniversary!

If you're looking to get a head start at the Iowa State Fair this weekend, consider going to Mass at the fairgrounds. Mass will be celebrated at Pioneer Hall on Sunday at 7:15 a.m.

Tune in to "In the Heartland With Bishop Pates" tomorrow at 10 a.m. Bishop Richard Pates will kick off the show with some thoughts on World Youth Day and then visit with Father David Smith and the folks at the Creighton University Retreat Center in Griswold, Iowa. The hour-long show can be heard on KWKY 1150 AM out of Des Moines and Spirit Catholic Radio Network 102.7 FM out of Omaha. Not near a radio? Tune in through the computer at www.kvss.com.

In an effort to help parishes throughout the Diocese of Des Moines promote and register participants for the November 6 Centennial Celebration and Mass we are holding a series of meetings (one in each region) throughout the diocese. At these meetings, the diocese will provide information on the event as well as promotional materials for parishes such as posters, flyers, save-the-date magnets, volunteer opportunities and registration forms. Feel free to attend the meeting that best fits your schedule and location within the diocese. Priests, parish centennial representatives and other parish leadership are invited to attend any of the following meetings:

• Tuesday, Aug. 30: Corpus Christi Parish (Council Bluffs) Queen of Apostles Great Hall from 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
• Tuesday, Aug 30: St. Mary’s Parish (Shenandoah) Parish Hall, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
• Thursday, Sept. 1: Ss. Peter and Paul (Atlantic) Triple Room in Parish Hall, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
• Tuesday, Sept. 6:  Holy Spirit Parish Hall (Creston) Parish Hall, 6:45 -7:45 p.m.
• Wednesday, Sept. 7:  Catholic Pastoral Center (Des Moines) Main Level Lobby, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
• Thursday, Sept. 8: St. Michael Parish Office Meeting room (Harlan) Rectory Basement, 7-8 p.m.

Contact centennial@dmdiocese.org with any questions.

Mark your calendar to attend a Council Bluffs regional celebration of the Catholic community on Sunday, Sept. 11 at 2 p.m. at St. Albert School. In honor of the diocese’s centennial, come to this prayer service and ice cream social with Bishop Richard Pates, Father Paul Monahan and Jesuit Father Bob Dufford. On display will be items from the history of our local Catholic community including stained glass windows, chalices, vestments and more.

We don't want to wait until the next issue of The Catholic Mirror to bring you this story!

By Patti Brown

Her hearing isn’t very good anymore, but when you consider that her ears have heard sounds in three different centuries—since April 4, 1897—she’s got a good excuse.

Despite a walker that she uses to get to the dining room, Dina Manfredini is healthy and strong and, at 114, the oldest member of not just Sacred Heart Parish, or the Diocese of Des Moines, but the oldest person in Iowa.

In fact, Dina is one of 88 supercentenarians—people who are older than 110 in the world -- and right now she is the world’s fourth oldest person and the second oldest person in the United States, according to the Gerontology Research Group’s list of verified living supercentenarians.

Dina was born and raised in Sant’Andrea, a small town in northern Italy, the month the after William McKinley became president of the United States and just a few weeks before Guglielmo Marconi sent the first wireless communication over the open sea. It was still the Victorian age, in fact Queen Victoria was celebrating 50 years on the throne in England. That spring, Pope Leo XIII promulgated his encyclical Divinum Illud Munus, and in September, Giovanni Battista Enrico Antonio Maria Montini, who became Pope Paul VI, would be born in a nearby village.

She came to America as a bride in 1920 and settled with her husband, Riccardo, in a tiny mining camp on the southwest edge of Des Moines. Riccardo was 15-years older and had come to America first before sending for Dina.

The couple raised four children, Mary, Dante, Rudy and Enes. Today, Enes Logli says she and her siblings walked five miles each way every Saturday to and from the old Sacred Heart Church on 4th Street in Valley Junction for catechism classes. “We lived ‘out in the country’ near 42nd and Park. So we couldn’t always get to Mass on Sunday mornings, but we always got to catechism classes,” said Logli. “My parents lived their faith. They were poor, but we didn’t realize it. We didn’t have electricity back then.”

Dina’s husband worked in the city’s coal mines until hurting his back. Then she went to work to make ends meet. As the nation prepared for World War II, Dina worked at the Des Moines Ordnance Plant in Ankeny where 2 million rounds of ammunition were produced a day. She also worked at Swift cracking eggs that would be turned into powdered eggs for U.S. soldiers. She also cleaned houses until she was 90, lying about her age so people wouldn’t think she was too old to work.

In 1939, Dina and her husband bought a little bungalow on 1st Street in Valley Junction. Riccardo died in 1965 and Dina continued to live there until moving into the Martina Place Assisted Living Residence at the Bishop Drumm Retirement Center in Johnston about four years ago when she was 110. These days, she spends much of her day sleeping.

“She is one of the most amazing people,” said Father Tom DeCarlo, chaplain for the residents of Bishop Drumm. “Her hearing is bad but she responds to Italian and I am able to speak some Italian to her.”

In addition to her four children, three of whom are still living, Dina has seven grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren and 12 great-great-grandchildren.
 

Your Catholic radio station could use some help. KWKY 1150 AM is in need of a director of sales. Must know Des Moines market and be a community person. Full-time position. Salary, commission, benefits. Call Mike Peters at 515-867-3617

Check out the diocesan centennial logo on the front of the first place Fourth of July parade float by St. Pius X Church. For the past 14 years, the parish has had a float in the annual Urbandale parade. Volunteers of all ages helped design, build and decorate the float. Mark your calendar now to attend the Nov. 6 Centennial Celebration at Hy-Vee Hall in Des Moines.

The Council Bluffs area is planning a regional celebration of the diocese’s 100th anniversary on Sept. 11 at St. Albert High School at 2 p.m. time. The celebration, with a prayer service and ice cream social, will highlight the growth of the Catholic faith in the Counicl Bluffs region as the diocese prepares for the diocesan-wide celebration of its centennial on Nov. 6 in Des Moines.
Father Paul Monahan will be master of ceremonies, which will open with on-screen images and the song “And God Said it was Good” led by composer Jesuit Father bob Dufford. The St. Albert Elementary School choir will sing. Bishop Richard pates will offer reflections and prayers will be offered in both English and Spanish and will be interpreted for the hearing impaired.
Alegent Health Mercy Hospital, a part of the community since 1887, will sponsor an ice cream social. Other sponsors include Oard Ross Drug Inc. (since 1903), Cutler O’Neill Funeral Home (since 1901), McGinn Law Firm (since 1914), Knights of Columbus Council 1045 (since 1905), Knights of Columbus Fourth Degree (since 1906) and St. Joseph Cemetery Association (since 1866).
On display will be various items from the history of the Catholic community of the region, said Mary Lou McGinn, a coordinator of the regional event and member of the diocesan Centennial Steering Committee.
Two stained glass windows from the former Mercy Hospital chapel, belonging to Joan Gubbels, of Corpus Christi Parish, will be there. The windows, 6-feet by 18-inches, were purchased through a St. Albert School auction, Gubbels said.
Telling the story of the faith through artifacts was a popular form of sustaining the faith back during the time of Jesus, she said.
“It tells the story,” she said. “Now, we can all read so we know the story. But art and music were the way to tell the story (years ago).”
Also on display will be a chalice with Bishop Drumm’s name engraved on the bottom. Another chalice dated Sept. 29, 1905, was brought from St. Francis Xavier Parish to Holy Family church when it opened in 1908.
Other items on display will be a Knights of Columbus sword and a St. Joseph Cemetery burial grounds account beginning in 1866, McGinn said.
St. Peter Church has the monstrance and sanctuary lamp from the former St. Francis Church, she said. The parish also has an old host maker with a long handle, she added.
Folks at St. Patrick Parish in Neola found an old set of black vestments with gold thread that had been used for funerals years ago, McGinn said.
Anyone with an item for the exhibit may contact Diane McKee at dsuemckee@cox.net or call 712-309-2341 before Aug. 15. Items that are easily viewed, rather than books, are encouraged.
The Council Bluffs region includes the parishes of Council Bluffs – St. Patrick St. Peter and Corpus Christi – plus St. Patrick in Neola, St. Columbanus in Weston and Holy Rosary in Glenwood.
 

Holy Family School in Des Moines is beginning classes today, Aug. 1, as it launches a continuous learning calendar. Holy Family is the first Catholic school in Iowa to take this innovative approach to education. The school will no longer use the traditional nine-month calendar with a three-month summer break. Rather, the school will offer continuous classroom education with one six-week break and a few more breaks of shorter duration.
 

The school’s decision to move to a continuous learning calendar was made to boost academic performance, said Principal Martin Flaherty. Studies show students lose some of what they learned during the three-month summer break and teachers spend time going over that material when students return to school.
 

“With this continuous learning calendar, the breaks between education sessions seem to be timed well for both the teachers and students in that they are long enough to be rejuvenating, but not too long to lose educational ground,” Flaherty said. “All of our research points us to the same conclusion: adopting a continuous learning calendar would benefit our kids. It’s the right thing to do.”
 

The change comes after much research and consultation with parents, more than 90 percent of whom support the decision. Principal Flaherty held meetings with parents, and conducted and anonymous survey of parents (offered in Spanish, Arabic and English) to gauge their support.
 

“I can’t believe how smoothly everything has gone,” said diocesan Schools Superintendent Dr. Luvern Gubbels. “Their enrollment has steadily increased this year. Word about the quality of what’s going on here is getting around.”
 

In addition to getting support from parents, there had to be support from teachers to make the move a success. Holy Family’s teachers spent time interviewing educators at Capitol View Elementary School, a Des Moines public school in physical proximity to Holy Family, which has adopted a continuous learning calendar. They returned encouraged and anxious to go to a continuous learning calendar at Holy Family.
 

Research was done to determine the success in other schools like Holy Family. “We looked at a lot of different studies from professional educators,” said Father John Bertogli, canonical administrator of the school. “When inner-city schools with vast cultural diversity moved to continuous learning calendars, they saw the academic structures strengthened. There’s a greater sense of consistency and integrity in the programs.”
 

In connection with this calendar change, Holy Family School Inner-City Youth Foundation is in the midst of building a $200,000 endowment that will fund programming during the school breaks that more closely reflects the learning camps that many other children experience during the traditional summer break. Mary and R.W. Nelson, founders of Kemin Industries, have pledged to match $1 for every $3 given to the foundation.
 

Many children have opportunities to continue their education through summer camps offered by libraries, museums and the like, said Father Bertogli. “Our kids have very limited opportunities,” he said.

Holy Family School is a gem in the city. It has a diverse student population and has support from friends of the school who appreciate the education approach and diversity at the school. The school is close to its 245-student capacity, with an enrollment of 242 and a waiting list for the next school year.
 

Please keep Archbishop Pietro Sambi, the Holy Father's representative in the United States, in your prayers. He passed away yesterday at age 73. Below is an obituary provided by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops.

Archbishop Sambi remembered as friend of the United States

WASHINGTON—Archbishop Pietro Sambi, the apostolic nuncio to the United States, died at Johns Hopkins Hospital July 27. He was 73. Staff at the nunciature, his residence in Washington, on July 22 asked for prayers of the Catholic community for him.
Funeral arrangements are pending.
Archbishop Timothy Dolan of New York, President of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, said Archbishop Sambi was a friend of the United States.
“As the personal representative of the Holy Father Pope Benedict XVI, Archbishop Sambi enjoyed the highest respect and deepest affection of the bishops of the United States and of our Catholic people,” Archbishop Dolan said in a July 28 statement.
Archbishop Sambi was appointed U.S. nuncio, or ambassador, in December 2005 by Pope Benedict XVI. Prior to the U.S. appointment, Pope John Paul II had named him nuncio to Israel and Cyprus and apostolic delegate in Jerusalem and Palestine in 1998. The appointment made him only the second Vatican ambassador to Israel, after the Vatican and Israel established diplomatic relations in 1994.
Archbishop Sambi was a native of central Italy and was ordained a priest in 1964. He was named an archbishop and nuncio to Burundi in 1985, a position he held for six years until being named nuncio to Indonesia.
During Pope Benedict’s April 2008 visit to the United States, Archbishop Sambi accompanied the pope and hosted him at the nunciature, where the pope held a historic private meeting with five victims of clergy sexual abuse.
Before the pope’s arrival, the archbishop said Pope Benedict was coming to “strengthen the faith, the hope and love of the Catholic Church in the United States,” adding that he hoped the pope’s visit would “bring a new wind of Pentecost … a new springtime” to the U.S. church.
Archbishop Sambi recognized the global role of the United States and the U.S. church and told the bishops in 2006 an anecdote from his time as Vatican representative to Indonesia. He recalled a Christmas he spent in a remote village in Indonesia where in street shops, he said, “I found Coca-Cola and Marlboros.”
“I think the United States and the church of the United States has something more to bring to the world than Marlboros and Coca-Cola,” he told the bishops.
Shortly after being named U.S. nuncio, Archbishop Sambi told Catholic News Service, the official news service of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, of the reach of the church in the United States.
“I travel a lot throughout the world. It is difficult to find a part of the world where the charity of U.S. Catholics did not reach the poor or sick people,” he said.
Archbishop Sambi received many honors, including an honorary doctorate in public and ecclesial service, May 8, from Regis University in Denver. In 2009, he received the Living Stones Solidarity Award, which honors those who have made “a sustained and extraordinary effort to love, support and stand in solidarity with the Christians in the Holy Land.” It is bestowed by the Holy Land Christian Ecumenical Foundation.
Last September he was the principal celebrant of a Mass marking the 13th anniversary of the death of Blessed Teresa of Kolkata, which coincided with the U.S. Postal Service’s issuance of a stamp bearing her likeness.
“This stamp looks almost like a holy card. I pray it may serve in some small way as a reminder of Mother Teresa,” Archbishop Sambi said. “May Jesus stamp upon our hearts the same spirit as Mother’s to love God, the church and the poorest of the poor more than ourselves.”
At a 10th anniversary observance in 2009 of the Joint Declaration on the Doctrine of Justification signed by Catholics and Lutherans, Archbishop Sambi told a Washington audience that today’s disciples of Jesus, like the first disciples, should be recognized by how they love each other and, guided by Jesus, they should walk together in a spirit of unity, mutual respect and brotherhood.
“Each act of unity is a profession of faith in the Lord Jesus,” said the archbishop.
At the 2007 convention of the National Catholic Educational Association, he called teachers “the greatest artists of the world … because you sculpt the best of what you are, not in a piece of marble but in human beings who are the glory of God.”
“Each of us has forgotten a lot of what we were told in school,” he added, “but a lot of what’s inside is from the example of teachers.”
Archbishop Sambi had not yet been appointed to the U.S. until when Hurricane Katrina hit in 2005, but a year after the storm, he took what locals call a “misery tour” of New Orleans. It was only then, he said, he realized the extent of the damage. “You cannot measure the extent of it until you come on the spot,” he said.
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Jim Roths and Father Larry Hoffmann, of St. Luke the Evangelist Parish in Ankeny, pause near Griswold on day one of RAGBRAI. They and several others comprise team "Seats of Wisdom," the team riding in celebration of the diocese's 100th anniversary. Members of the team will be on Bishop Pates' radio show this Friday. In the Heartland With Bishop Pates airs at 10 a.m. on KWKY 1150 AM/Des Moines and Spirit Catholic Radio Network 102.7 FM/Omaha.

Bishop Richard Pates received a "thank you" letter from Ken Hackett, president of Catholic Relief Services, for our diocese's gift of $49,250 for the people of Japan recovering from a massive earthquake.

Hackett wrote: "Please accept my deepest appreciation to the people in the Diocese of Des Moines for your generous contribution and heartfelt concern for the people of Japan. Your support allows Catholic Relief Services to bring help and hope to those devastated by natural disasters. Bishop Isao Kikuchi, the president of Caritas Japan, was overwhelmed by the outpouring of generosity from around the globe. Bishop Kikuchi extends his most heartfelt gratitude 'to all the good people who showed their willingness to support Japan during the time of this disaster with prayers, messages and donations. A tremendous number of emails we received in our office in Tokyo reminded us that we are not living in solitude, but solidarity.' "

Check out this press release issued by the folks who handle the Saint John's Bible. It's about our touring print exhibit that's going on in celebration of our diocese's 100th anniversary. It also talks about our fine-art exhibit held earlier this year, also in celebration of our centennial.

On Friday's edition of "In the Heartland With Bishop Pates" you'll hear Bishop and Tom Chapman, executive director of the Iowa Catholic Conference, talk about what happened and what didn't happen during this most recent legislative session. Tune in to KWKY 1150 AM out of Des Moines or Spirit Catholic Radio Network 102.7 FM out of Omaha/Council Bluffs. The show will be repeated on Saturdays at noon on KWKY.

We’re doing a new edition of the Teaching Mass, one which will focus on the new texts. It will be video recorded at Our Lady’s Immaculate Heart Parish in Ankeny this Monday night, July 18, from 6-9 pm. Everyone is invited to attend the taping. Our goal is to get four 20-minute segments that will be available to parishes in DVD and online formats: Introductory Rites, Liturgy of the Word, Liturgy of the Eucharist, and Concluding Rites. People who come to the taping will experience Msgr. Steve Orr and liturgical ministers from Our Lady's Immaculate Heart doing many of the movements for Mass. We’ll do the liturgical components for each segment, then Father Steve will give words of explanation. In the editing process, Father Steve’s explanation will be used as a voice-over to the liturgical texts and actions. Come to the taping Monday night at Our Lady's Immaculate Heart Church in Ankeny!

The Iowa State Fair begins in less than a month. If you're planning an early start on the Sundays of the fair, know that Mass will be celebrated on the fairgrounds. The schedule is for Mass to be celebrated at 7:15 a.m. on Sunday Aug. 14 and Sunday Aug. 21 at Pioneer Hall.

The Diocese of Des Moines is gearing up for a big celebration Nov. 6 at the Iowa Events Center/Hy-Vee Hall and needs your voice. If you'd like to be a part of the 200-plus choir we're creating for this spectacular event, contact the diocesan Office of Worship at worship@dmdiocese.org. The director will be Jim Cacciatore, assistant director of vocal music at Ankeny High School. There will be one rehearsal in late October in Atlantic for all singers and  a dress rehearsal in Des Moines on Nov. 5 for all singers.

Sister Joelle Mauer is celebrating her 60th jubilee as a member of the Holy Cross religious community. Sister ministered as director of liturgy and music from 1984-1994 at St. Ambrose Cathedral. Originally from Wisconsin, she served as director of vocations for the Holy Cross Sisters, worked more than 20 years in religious education and parish music, established and served in the Office of Worship in the Diocese of Baton Rouge, La. and was senior housing facility director and coordinator of the senior Holy Cross sisters at Bell Tower Residence in Wisconsin. She currently works with the poor in Owensboro, Kentucky.

Bishop Richard Pates has released a video about Marriage-Building Parishes, a new iniative of the Diocese of Des Moines. Check out what he has to say. In addition to his remarks, hear some thoughts from Archbishop Joseph Kurtz, Bishop Sam Jacobs, Bishop Daniel Conlon and more about what the Catholic Church teaches about marriage. After watching this 10-minute video, look at what our diocese has to offer on its website regarding marriage: upcoming workshops, outreach by the Marriage Ministry office and more.

Fairway Fathers, held June 20 at Blank Golf Course in Des Moines, was a success. Thank you to the countless individuals and groups, sponsors and volunteers, who offered many hours to help us continue the annual tradition. Fairway Fathers is an opportunity for young men who are considering a vocation to the priesthood to spend time golfing and talking with our diocesan priests about how and why they answered the call to be a priest. The event offers the young men some time to ask questions they may have and for priests to share what it's like being a priest. For more information about a vocation to the priesthood or religious life, check out our diocesan website on vocations.

More and more parishes are becoming adept at using ParishSoft software. In fact, the software company is running a contest of parishes that are sharing their success stories. Among them is our very own St. Mary Parish in Red Oak. Check out this link in which they share their success story of  using ParishSoft and then vote. St. Mary's is so very close to winning and the price is an iPad2. Help our parish be well represented!

This Sunday, Father Wayne Gubbels will be celebrating his 40^th anniversary of ordination. Father Gubbels will celebrate with Mass at St. Patrick Church in Audubon at 1:30 p.m. on Sunday with an open house at the parish center following Mass. Father Gubbels serves as pastor of two parishes in the north central part of our diocese: Holy Trinity in Exira and St. Patrick in Audubon.

Humility Sister Marie Finnegan, 86, died Wednesday at Bishop Drumm Retirement Center in Johnston. She served the Diocese of Des Moines as an educator in Dunlap and Stuart, as a teacher at St. Anthony and Christ the King Schools in Des Moines and as principal of St. Joseph School in Des Moines. Today, Thursday, rosary will be at 4 p.m. and vigil service at 7 p.m. at the Bishop Drumm Our Lady of Peace Chapel in Johnston. Tomorrow, Friday, visitation will be at Humility of Mary Center, Magnificat Chapel in Davenport with rosary at 4 p.m. and vigil service at 7 p.m. Funeral Mass is Saturday, June 11 at 11 a.m. at the Humility of Mary Center in Davenport.

Our Catholic Charities Disaster Response Team is monitoring the predicted flooding situation in western Iowa. In particular, counties in our diocese that anticipate significant impact include Pottawattamie, Mills and Fremont. Watch Catholic Charities' website for information on the need for donations and volunteers. Catholic Charities has set up an online means of donating to help those who will experience a major impact from the rising Missouri River.

In the event of a local, regional, or national disaster, the Catholic Charities Emergency/Disaster Response Program mobilizes the agency's services and resources and works in partnership with parishes to respond at the local level. The agency's efforts are also coordinated with those of other service providers in the government, not-for-profit, and healthcare sectors. This program may additionally provide assistance with, and information for, long term relief, such as support services and financial assistance.

Bishop Richard Pates ordained Father Guthrie Dolan to the priesthood Friday evening at St. Ambrose Cathedral. Click here to see some photos, or go to the Diocese of Des Moines Facebook site to see a gallery of photos. Click here to read the homily. Father Dolan will celebrate a Mass of Thanksgiving:

• Saturday, June 4 at 10:30 a.m. at the Basilica of St. John in Des Moines
• Saturday, June 4 at 5:30 p.m. at All Saints Church in Stuart
• Sunday, June 5 at 10 a.m. at St. Joseph Church in Des Moines.