On August 15, 2026, the Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau will gather in West Plains, MO, to celebrate our first-ever Diocesan Eucharistic Congress. This will be a significant event to mark the 70th anniversary of the diocese established by Pope Pius XII. Bishop Charles Helmsing was appointed the first bishop of the diocese on July 2 of that same year. On his arrival in the newly established diocese, his goal was simple yet profound, “To build on the heroic efforts of those who preceded him.”

Over the past 70 years, there have been tremendous changes throughout the diocese, the Church, and society. Still, his mandate serves us well today: We are called to build on the heroic efforts of those who preceded us throughout the 39 counties that make up the Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau.

Bishop Helmsing’s first pastoral letter, promoting devotion to the Sacred Heart, comes full circle 70 years later as the Bishops of the United States approved the consecration of the United States to the Sacred Heart of Jesus on June 12, coinciding with America’s 250th anniversary.

The work of evangelization continues today. Your donation to the Diocesan Development Appeal (DDF)—The Bishop’s Annual Appeal, will ensure our efforts well into the future. Please be generous! May God bless you and I look forward to seeing you in West Plains.

(Click below to read full article on the Diocese’s website…)