The Link

3/1/2013
DIOCESE OF DES MOINES

Bishop asks for Prayers for Cardinal Electors

Bishop Richard E. Pates, Bishop of Des Moines, is asking all parishes and institutions in the Diocese to include a special intention in the intercessory prayers the weekend of March 2nd and 3rd for Cardinal Electors gathering in conclave to elect the Successor of Pope Benedict XVI.

The petition is: "For the Cardinal Electors in conclave that they be open to and responsive to the guidance of the Holy Spirit as they choose the next Successor of St. Peter the Apostle in service to the Church."

Bishop Pates also asked that each of the parishes celebrate a special Mass for the Cardinal Electors in the coming week. The text of this Mass has been circulated to the parishes and is also on the diocesan website.

"The role of the Cardinals is obviously critical as the Church prepares to welcome a new leader called to serve the Church and the broader community with the Spirit and love of the Lord - so very needed in today's world," Bishop Pates stated.

The Diocese of Des Moines includes 81 parishes in 23 counties in central and southwest Iowa.

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(CONTACT: Anne Marie Cox, Office of Communications, Diocese of Des Moines, 515-237-5057, communications@dmdiocese.org)