The 16 best churches in Des Moines

always a wonderful gathering so good to see you all. thank you again for sharing the parable of the camel threading the eye of a needle being easier than the rich entering the kingdom of heaven. i agree this message is most important to the children who wish to know the difference between earthly treasures and storing treasures in heaven. i love you all and God bless you

Very welcoming church that invites EVERYONE to attend. They want you here regardless if you are rich/poor, black/white, homeless, faithless, sad, angry, happy, or confused. The worship music is modern with some traditional songs mixed on and is perfect to get you on your feet. The preaching is authentic. It's clear the church wants you here regardless of your views on the church or God. This is a safe place to discover who God is and you won't be judged for where you are at in that journey. I've been very impressed with how this church has been able to connect with people who have been following Christ their entire lives as well as those who are trying to discover who God is. They have an amazing Vacation Bible School in early August that is very well produced and a very inviting place for kids and parents alike, regardless of your attendance at the church. There is also an incredible meal outreach here. If you need a meal there are no questions asked...just show up Sunday mornings or Wednesday evenings. We really enjoyed worshipping here during our time in Des Moines and have a great appreciation for how this church is serving the community.

Went to church at this location on the day before Drake's classes started in August 2015 (my first Sunday in Des Moines, as I was a freshman that year). On the bright side, they did make sure to include a special welcome to Drake students during the service, and they even had a reception scheduled that afternoon. On the other hand, they also made sure to include a special welcome to gay people. I might have come back if that was it. But I saw the reddest of all red flags when I was there: the entire congregation consisted of old people, except for one other student who was also a freshman looking for a church. How badly do you have to screw up to be located right on the corner of a college campus, yet be unable to attract even a single student? (Note that this was in 2015, and I can't remember if the same church was located here at that time. If it was not the same church, please remove this review and let me know.)

They gave a great sermon and the live music is fenominal

I love Hope Elim. The whole Hope Elim team is fantastic and on fire for God! I love the diversity at this church and all of the community outreach it does for the city of Des Moines. Also, let me tell you that the sermons are fantastic and the wide array of vocal performers are probably some of the best I’ve ever heard! I appreciate all the welcoming smiles and genuine connections that this church has brought to me and my family!!! Thank you Hope Elim!!!

I absolutely love the excitement in this church. The way the pastor explains Jesus and his love and grace are exactly what every heart needs. God meets you where you are! This is not a fire and brimstone church. No one is screaming you're going to hell for doubts or not being perfect. There's no judgment here only love. There's no dress code, there's no one telling you what think, feel, do, watch or listen to. This pastor knows God teaches you in your own time and no one can be perfect. It's about building a relationship with The Holy Spirit and learning his will for your life. It was a comfortable environment and I will definitely be attending regularly and try to serve and become part of Hope Elim.

My family and I recently attended a memorial service at this location and encountered very welcoming, caring people. The pastor gave an inspiring message of truth and hope from the Bible & the worship band was superb. If we didn't already have a church home I would consider going here!

So kind I love them they will give u so much time

My church family! Large church that clearly and faithfully preaches the gospel of Jesus Christ! Contemporary music, and a loving, caring staff of dedicated Christians! Love the small group I'm in! We don't water down the word of God. All us sinners are welcome, all are called to repent and receive Jesus as Lord, by faith!

This church and their staff do wonderful and amazing things with their congregation! The youth groups, events, activities, etc are plentiful as well as their development in Christ at an early age. The entire church is wonderful at any age about getting The Gospel out. So if you love the true Gospel without ear tickling, a family that fosters your spiritual growth and development, a long with plenty of opportunities to serve, as well as activities that are God centered and family friendly, then this would be a great new church family for anyone of any age! The pastors know their onions when it comes to The Good book and also the resources and references you need to support the teachings of the Gospel. Very welcoming and warm family that cares about your spiritual well-being and the accuracy of the truth for followers of Christ. Love love love this church. Christ has done wonderful things in my life with his Grace and using this church to effectively teach me and guide me in my spiritual growth. The Lord has blessed me by leaps, bounds and amazing miracle in my spiritual life and development by using Grace church, the staff, and support of everyone. Also for anyone that has daughters or granddaughters aged 7 to 12, stop on out October 10th for a mother/daughter night at Grace Church Des Moines for The Crazy Girl Hair Tour, and experience just one of many wonderful events for your childrens growth in Christ. Just visit Grace church Des Moines and get your tickets! Hope to see new faces there! Thank You Grace Church for all the wonderful works the Lord is and has blessed you with to reach people across the street and around the world.

Every year they throw a really fun Easter deluxe party they put on a show give out prizes and have a candy free for all

The absolute best church I have ever been a part of. Consistently solid Biblical teaching. Staff and congregation are unified in the church's mission: "to glorify God by making disciples of Jesus Christ across the street and around the world". YouTube Livestream every Sunday at 8:30 and 10am CT (most weeks).

I just love this place, I have grown so much here. I have a Church Family like you wouldn’t believe. The Praise and Worship team is the best, the songs speaks to my heart every Sunday…The preaching is on point, and Pastor Phil gets us ready to face the week ahead with Scriptures from the Bible.

Seems like a very welcoming Church but we were a little late to an evening service and was not sure where to go and had to ask another person who didn't know where the classes were and that wasn't much help so we just wandered around until we found one that look like about our age group. It is a very large Church and I prefer a small family friendly Church but we would like to try some more of the services. The Ethos group 4 young adults on Wednesday nights is very good and our granddaughter loves going to it and the fellowship that they have together after the service. The group my granddaughter and I went to accepted us readily and we just happened to know several people in the class which helped us feel very much at home. We have also attended funerals and baptisms there and they have a large screen so that you can see very well. Need to visit more to be able to really say much more.

I was a part of this church for 13 years. After leaving, I had to be in therapy for quite a while. My therapist said I was not the first one she had counseled after leaving Walnut Creek and I wouldn't be the last. She also mentioned that most therapists in the area know of this church. It's a cult. I beg you, please do not attend. I'm hopeful things can change, but I also know I'm not alone in my experience. I've had many friends leave and then enter therapy because of the damage Walnut Creek had done.

I started attending Walnut Creek Church when I came to Grand View University, and it’s been a huge part of my faith journey. Over the past three years, I’ve grown so much in my walk with the Lord thanks to the solid biblical teaching, strong community, and focus on discipleship. The people here are welcoming, and the leadership is passionate about helping others grow in their faith. So thankful for this church!

I’ve been attending Walnut Creek Church since 2003 and have spent time at most of their locations over the years. Since 2019, my family and I have been part of the Downtown location. As a music major with a church music certification, I really appreciate the intentional worship song choices that support the teaching each week—I geek out on that kind of thing! Our children have grown in their faith through the children’s ministry and Unite Youth Group events and teachings throughout the school year. The church is passionate about equipping those who attend and reaching out to people who haven’t heard the Gospel. With a large congregation, it can take some effort to find “your place” or “your people,” but I encourage you to introduce yourself and find a way to serve that fills your bucket—it’s a great way to connect with others and build community. Every church has its flaws because it’s made up of people just like you and me—but what makes this one special is how we strive to follow Jesus together, even in our imperfections.

I've been attending this church for five years now. This church preaches the Gospel every Sunday no matter what. There are so many ways to get connected with other Christians even though it is a big church. We quickly found. A community group family and have loved it!

Walnut Creek Church is a gospel-centered church with great community. Every Sunday, the pastors dive deeper into God’s Word and clearly explain the gospel. The pastors are intentional in decision making and it’s easy to get plugged into community and serve within the church!

Can't say anything except how amazingly God has used this local church to draw me closer to Him through Jesus. This is not a perfect church, because those don't exist; instead, this is a people who strive to love one another as Christ commands, live out their faith as God has ordered & revealed in His Word, strive towards holiness by the Holy Spirit's power, welcome the stranger as they have been welcomed by the Father, and be lights shining the true Light in the world - in short, glorifying Christ above all.

Walnut Creek Church Downtown is a great church! The pastors are engaging and gospel-centered in their preaching. There are many opportunities to get involved and be part of the community of believers.

Revision church has been a breath of fresh air. They are welcoming in a way that invites you into community that you didn’t think you needed but now couldn’t imagine going without. Their kids/young adult programming is intentional with leaders who truly care. Most importantly the leadership of the church is humble and wise making it abundantly clear it’s God’s doing not their own. They don’t pretend to know it all and create a culture that showcases their values every step of the way. I’m excited to see where God takes this church.

We have been going to this church for about 6 years and absolutely LOVE it. The community at Revision is welcoming, supportive and kind. Pastor Mike is an incredible speaker and we always look forward to his sermons. We have really enjoyed growing in our faith and always leave church with our hearts full!! Highly recommend this church-everyone is welcome!

Revision is absolutely amazing! I feel so loved and supported by a family of believers! Revision church is full of real people. You will be welcomed with open arms! The kids & youth also love attending! 💖

Revision church is the place to go if you are looking to meet/connect with new people, hear amazing/relatable sermons, and best of all fall in love with Jesus! This church has had an incredible impact on my life and provided me with wonderful friendships! I invite you to join us!

Revision has been my home church for several years now, and it definitely feels like "home" to me! Pastor Mike, and the rest of the staff, along with all of the members, are incredibly friendly and welcoming. The weekly message and worship music fills my cup for the week, and helps me feel more in touch with Christ.

My family and I have been attending Revision for almost a year. Although we really enjoyed our prior church, Revision spoke to our entire family in a way that other churches haven’t. Pastor Mike is an incredibly gifted speaker and I walk away from every sermon having learned something. But more importantly, I leave with a feeling of being closer to knowing what I am meant to do in this life that I’ve been given. Although I am sure the church will continue to grow, I’m optimistic and confident that it will remain grounded to the humble roots that started the church. If you are looking for a place to learn more about God or try out a new church, I’d highly encourage you to check out a couple sermons online or just show up on Sunday. It’s what we did, and I couldn’t be happier.

a truly engaging church, friendly congregation. modern music, sometimes acoustic sometimes with a full band. Good kids' and youth programing. Biblically based messages with a good balance of historical and cultural teaching and inspiration that is applicable in my life today. Entertaining! I love this place!

My family and I have been attending this church for the last three years. We love the diversity and everyone is very welcoming. The Church leadership has created many opportunities to volunteer and to also join groups to fellowship. Our aim is to make disciples so that they can make disciples. Discipleship invites us into a community of believers, a safe place to be vulnerable and receive accountability, and an increasing intimacy with Jesus Christ. Come and experience the power of faith, hope, and love.

I would visit this church as a kid with my childhood best friend. So many good memories were made here. I absolutely loved when her family would ask me to come to church with them. It was so different from my church growing up. I think I’ll have to come in and check it out again with my kids.

Friendly church they did baby diamonds funeral service for my friends mom after that I went to a couple Sunday services. everyone is nice their very diverse and you just have to give them a chance some time!!

This is my Iowa home church. So rich with variety of cultural background of members and visitors. Pastor Dan and the rest of the pastoral team are huge blessings! God's Words come alive at this church, too.

Pastor Dan preaches the word of God ! Diverse congregation, spiritual filled choir, children program for babies/ toddlers. There is a lot to do and going for everyone! You can definitely get involved and feel wanted at Cornerstone Family church!

Pastor Dan is a great giver of the word!! This church is welcoming and is genuinely interested in growing your relationship with your creator. They want your life in christ to flourish! A phenomenal judgment free zone! Come and bring ur friends/family!!

Amazing church family dedicated to save the lost. Heal the broken and reach a city for Christ. Will be returning soon

This is the first church in Des Moines that I've truly felt like I've belonged. I absolutely love the pastor and congregation here and consider it my home. Great for families with or without children.

The gateway church ROCKS. A church that truly cares about the community and the people too. I look forward to seeing what God does with the gateway in the future.

Clarity of Biblical teaching relevant to today, friendly folks, beautiful music.

Family friend is pastor

Excellent place of worship

Ive dabbled in Catholicism and maybe one day I will commit if its best for me, but when I did go here often, it was great. The church itself is very beautiful inside and outside, you will feel so small when inside the cathedral. Youll see people often come here outside of weekend masses, to of course have mass but also to pray as there is a large sense of inspiration in the atmosphere. The parish is sociable, they are kind and you will have great conversations if you start them. Priests care and love what they do, love their parish If you are catholic or interested in the faith its a great place to be

This church is across the street from the mega YMCA that hosted the events for the National Senior Games. Beautiful church.

Very nice Cathedral. It has a bit of a mix between morden and antique.

One of the most beautiful cathedrals I have been in, such a hidden beauty. Grateful Mercy College is able to do pinning ceremonies here. Highly recommend attending.

Beautiful. The Father I ran into breaks all stereotypes. Building on National Historic Registry.

Felt at home when I walked in. I didn't understand all of the prayers, but it didn't make me feel unwelcome or out-of-place

Only been there for a Drake Univ. choir concert, but it's a beautiful worship space with stained glass windows and an ornate ceiling.

This tour of the church was offered thru Des Moines Historical, it was interesting to learn the history, see the details of beauty. Plus we even were blessed with Music Director being there & playing a couple hours on the grand pipe organ. So worth seeing.

Beautiful church. Music wonderful. Unfortunately I am allergic to incense so I have to go to another church that uses it only for funerals. Woman that answered the phone not very Christianlike when I called the office twice. Sad honestly.

I've been to Mass here several times when in town. The 10:30 Festive Sung Mass is beautiful and very spiritual. The basilica itself is one of the most beautiful churches I've seen.

Do not come here the people here are racist and in my daughter’s confirmation class the teacher brought up politics mid session. When talking about our Lord the topic of politics should not be mentioned. Especially pushing your views onto children. If this is the how you are going to talk about the word of God then I do not consider these people good christians.

Beautiful amazing spiritual place. The priest was wonderful. We had amazing conversations about the basilica and the world. Not open to public all the time. Please note the time of masses

Always a calm, beautiful place to stop in! The priest there offers a beautiful Mass and the basilica itself is stunning!

We loved this church ⛪ ❤ Beautiful church and prayers 🙏 Love to go there every week. Feeling so peaceful 😌 whenever I go to basilica of St. John.

Warm and receiving with unconditional hospitality to a wayfaring stranger on a cold, dark Christmas Eve Night. Pastor was loving and gracious in her Priestly role and Angelic in her singing of the Traditional Hynns of Christmas.

This was my grandparents church many many years ago. I have so many memories of it. I found it just as I remembered it the sanctuary was beautiful. The basement was still the same and brought back memories of The mother daughter banquets we attended with Grandma.

There for a funeral, and Pastor Minna is so kind. The old church is beautiful and equipped with an elevator for people with disabilities.

Full disclosure: lifelong member. Welcoming members (very diverse), amazing pastor, mix of music (love the 100+ year old organ). The church also operates a clothes closet and participates in many city-wide ministries including Urban Bicycle Food Ministry.

Has wonderful ministries. Offers a free clothes closet on Wednesday from 3pm till 5pm and Saturday from 9:30am till 11:30am.

A member, historic old school church with a small town feel like you remember and a memorable sanctuary. Close congregation like a big family.

Seems OK. Just went there to hear a vocal music performed by students from the Southwestern Community College (IA) professional music department.

My husband and I visited while in town to see family. The congregation is warm and welcoming, and doing an amazing job at creating a come as you are community. It was Trinity Sunday and the sermon was impressively done, even with such a difficult topic. It's always great to see a Church proclaiming the Good News and building the Kingdom of God in a loving and inclusive manner!

Parish is beautiful parishioners are awful friendly very good service the garden could use a little work I may volunteer this summer

Very nice church, I attend a meeting held here , but the people I've come across or friendly, very pretty church inside

My church home for over 2 decades. An affirming community filled with the love of Christ. The service and music are wonderful.

Worst servive for Palm Sunday. Why end the service with the reading of the Passion. This is the one time to be uplifting.

Nice place. Welcoming people...

Have wonderful monthly cultural events

I love the CBC family! Rev and First Lady Whitfield are faithful and care about their congregation and community!

The church of Corinthian Baptist has been supportive in my life during the crucial and emotional times when I needed them. They welcomed me with open arms/open heart. I am grateful knowing that we have people who love the LORD and are standing on the front line ready to carry out His plans.

I have been attending Corinthian for about 3-4 years now. I continue to come to fellowship with the members here because they accepted me just as I was. I am often in awe by the love they pour on my special needs child. To them, she is free to praise God however she sees fit. Thank you for loving me through my pain Corinthian.

The people don’t have good communication they say it’s gonna call you back, but don’t said they could help never communicate with me if I got the help or not

I went inside looking for confirmation, conviction, and spiritual growth! This church is full of great spirits, beautiful people,and it is community centered. I love love love the choir and the sermons are real and fulfilling! Finding this place is home! I found home!

Been a member there for over 10 years and love it. Always feel welcome and it's so awesome that even during this time of covid I can still worship online every Sunday! It's home.

I must say the visit I had here was so welcoming first of all an the Pastor OMG when I say he can preach the word of God an explain so well you will definitely come out of there with a better walk then u came in he was great an the other leaders solo singer as well did a fantastic job I will definitely be back soon I decided he so good I will do church twice a month an give my church twice a month it was love at first sight here❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

Very warm and friendly congregation. Everyone feels welcome. Pastor Russ gives the best sermons... No one will fall asleep in this church.

I was there for a Celebration of Life. They have a huge room to serve food and have the remembrance. It was very nice.

We had a reunion in the connecting building ..very nice room but the acoustics were not good

Very welcoming congregation!

A truly non judgenental church. Showing the love of Jesus Christ!

Amazing and helpful