Answering the Call: Diocese of Des Moines Runs Two Deacon Formation Cohorts for the First Time – Deacon Jim Houston – 08/11/2026

The Catholic Morning Show

Deacon Jim Houston, Director of the Permanent Diaconate for the Diocese of Des Moines, joins The Catholic Morning Show to explain what it takes to become a Catholic deacon and why the diocese is now running two formation cohorts side by side for the first time in its history. He walks through the five-year discernment and candidacy process, the role a wife plays throughout formation, and the growing need for deacons across the diocese's parishes. Whether you're personally discerning a call to the diaconate or simply curious what deacons actually do, this conversation offers a clear, practical look inside the process.

About Podcast

Connecting Listeners to Christ. The Catholic Morning Show, a nationally known radio show conveys a message of lasting fulfillment in Jesus Christ. Through prayer, the Sacraments, family life, and the help of Mary and the saints, We want to cultivate an intimate relationship with Jesus, and help others do the same. Join the Catholic Morning Show weekdays at 7:00AM with Bo Bonner, Deacon Mark Campbell, and Ayden Pugh.