Respect Life Month
October: A Month to Celebrate the Gift of Life
October invites us into a season of reflection, compassion, and community as we celebrate Respect Life Month. Whether you are a longtime parishioner, new to the area, or simply someone seeking a place to pray, learn, or connect with others—you are warmly welcome here.
Throughout the month, our parish is hosting several meaningful gatherings that honor the dignity of every human life. Some events are quiet and prayerful, others are lively and communal, and all are rooted in the belief that every person is a gift. We would be delighted to have you join us.
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Events & Opportunities to Join Us
InnerVisions Baby Bottle Campaign Kickoff
Sat.–Sun., Oct. 3–4
We begin our month‑long support of InnerVisions HealthCare, a local organization providing free, life‑affirming care for mothers and their babies. Pick up a baby bottle after Mass, fill it with change, cash, or a check, and return it by October 25. All are welcome to participate in this simple but powerful act of generosity.
End of Life Issues: An Evening of Guidance & Conversation
Thu., Oct. 8 | 5:30–7:30 PM
We begin with a meal at 5:30 PM, followed by presentations from 6:00–7:30 PM.
Our guest speakers include Nadia Clark Sharp, a nurse practitioner with extensive experience in nursing‑home and hospice care, who will share the Catholic perspective on end‑of‑life decisions and how to accompany loved ones with compassion. Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home will also offer insights into Catholic funeral planning.
Babysitting is available for children ages 2+. Please call the parish office to reserve 515‑993‑4482.
This evening is open to everyone—no parish membership needed.
Eucharistic Adoration Encounter Night
Tue., Oct. 13 | 6:00–7:00 PM
Join us for a peaceful hour of Eucharistic Adoration with a Respect Life focus. A light meal will follow. This is a beautiful opportunity for quiet prayer and community.
Respect Life Mass & Memorial Stone Dedication
Sun., Oct. 18 | 11:00 AM
We warmly invite all—parishioners, neighbors, and friends—to join us at St. John’s Catholic Church in Adel for a Respect Life Mass at 11 AM on Sunday, October 18. We are blessed to welcome Bishop William Joensen as the main celebrant of the Mass and as the leader of the memorial stone dedication ceremony that follows.
Immediately after Mass, we will gather in our Memorial Garden for the Unborn for a special prayer service and the dedication and placement of memorial stones in remembrance of unborn children or infants lost too soon. Whether you come to pray, to remember, or simply to stand alongside others in love and solidarity, you are warmly welcome.
Bingo with StoryPoint Residents
Thu., Oct. 22 | 2:00 PM
A simple, joyful afternoon of connection with our neighbors at StoryPoint. All ages and guests are welcome.
Openness to Life Panel
Thu., Oct. 29 | 5:30–7:30 PM
Dinner begins at 5:30 PM; presentations run from 6:00–7:30 PM.
This evening features several inspiring speakers who will share real stories of courage, faith, and love:
- Bryan & Kilty Gonzalez on the joys and challenges of raising a large family
- Sarah Hurm, author and speaker, on her abortion pill reversal story
- Mike & Marsha Fisher on raising a child with special needs
- Dom & Nicole Forest on their journey through foster care and adoption
Babysitting available (ages 2+). To reserve, call 515‑993‑4482.
This event is open to the wider community—please feel free to invite friends.
You Are Welcome Here
Thank you for being part of a community that cherishes the gift of life. Whether you join us for prayer, learning, fellowship, or simply to be present, we are grateful. May this month draw us closer to Christ and to one another as we celebrate the beauty of every human life.
