Beginning July 14, 2026, the Archdiocese of Dubuque will reorganize its 160 parishes into 24 pastorates. Archbishop Thomas Zinkula announced the reorganization over the weekend following a yearlong “Journey in Faith” process.
In a letter to parishioners, Zinkula noted that Mass attendance has declined 46% over the past 20 years and that the number of available priests is decreasing. He said the decision followed a process that included input and feedback from parishioners through parish meetings, regional gatherings and conversations.
As part of the reorganization, St. Patrick’s Church in Hampton and Sacred Heart Parish in Rockwell will join the Mason City Pastorate. St. Mark Parish in Iowa Falls, St. Mary Parish in Ackley, St. John Parish in Clarion, St. Francis Xavier Parish in Belmond and St. Mary Parish in Eldora will join the Webster City Area Pastorate.
The reorganization will include changes to Mass schedules. Some churches will offer weekend Mass in English only, some in Spanish only, and some will not hold weekend Mass at all. Churches not used for weekend Mass may be used for weekday worship, faith formation, adoration, community service, weddings and funerals.
Mass schedules have not yet been finalized, as priests are also being reassigned. Incoming pastors will collaborate to create an interim schedule from July 15 through Jan. 15.
Mass times will be announced to their respective communities once finalized. More information is available at dbqjourneyinfaith.org/final-pastorate-plan.
