The Catholic Morning Show

Answering the Call: The Emergency Pastoral Response Team with Deacons Robb Stark and Eric Pugh - 04/27/2026

Episode Summary

Deacons Robb Stark and Eric Pugh discuss the Diocese of Des Moines’ Emergency Pastoral Response Team, a group of clergy trained to respond to crises with prayer, presence, and pastoral care. Formed after the Greenfield tornado, the team provides spiritual and emotional support in the aftermath of disasters and traumatic events. Their mission focuses on listening, praying, and walking with individuals during difficult moments, serving as a bridge between immediate crisis response and long-term healing.

Episode Notes

• What the Emergency Pastoral Response Team is and who is involved
• Origins of the team following the Greenfield tornado
• Structure: priests and deacons trained for crisis response
• How and when the team is “activated” by diocesan leadership
• Real examples of recent activations (including Ankeny incident)
• The team’s focus on spiritual care, not physical disaster recovery
• Importance of presence, listening, and prayer in traumatic situations
• Collaboration with counselors and emergency personnel
• How visible signs (clerical collars, vests) help people seek support
• The role of military experience in organizing and responding effectively
• Supporting both individuals and parish communities in crisis
• How parish priests connect with the team during emergencies
• The Church’s role in bridging immediate crisis and long-term healing