Divine Treasures

In September 1989, after a pilgrimage to Medjugorje, Yugoslavia, Lois Brookhart felt a strong call from God to begin a Catholic book and gift ministry for the Des Moines Catholic community. Her vision was to create a place where Catholics could grow in their faith, deepen their love for Christ, and find hope in His Church.

Lois shared this calling with her husband, Jim, a nominal Baptist, and her friend and co-worker, Susan Greenwood, a cradle Catholic. Together, the two women prayerfully sought God’s guidance on how the ministry should take shape.

It was Susan’s husband, a non-Catholic and military officer, who suggested the name Divine Treasures. Susan and Lois took this as a sign from God, inspired by the Holy Spirit, and moved forward with their plans. With much encouragement and prayer support—especially from their friends Ila and Jim Daly, owners of Daly’s Catholic Store, the only other Catholic store in Des Moines—Divine Treasures, Inc. was born.

On All Souls Day, November 2, 1992, Divine Treasures opened its doors for the first time in Franklin Plaza, a small strip mall in the Beaverdale area.welcoming environment for our customers.

Lois served as president, with Sue as vice president. Within just a few years of opening, both of their husbands entered the Catholic Church. Jim Brookhart, Lois’s husband, managed the store and oversaw its daily operations until his passing on January 29, 2004. After his death, Lois and Sue together carried on that responsibility.

Their work has been supported by the prayers of loyal customers, the dedication of three faithful employees, the generosity of many friends who volunteer their time and talents, and the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary and St. Joseph.

Over the years, Divine Treasures has grown and moved to two new locations. The store has also welcomed a new co-owner, Cindy Kodis and doubled in size. Through God’s grace, the ministry continues to flourish, serving the needs of the Des Moines Catholic community and beyond—and looks forward to doing so for many years to come.

Chris and Angela Oberreuter took over as new owners on January 1, 2025.

Through God’s grace, the ministry continues to flourish, serving the needs of the Des Moines Catholic community and beyond—and looks forward to doing so for many years to come.