Statement from Archbishop on the Tragedy at Annuciation

My heart is heavy with grief for the children, families, and community of Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis who have endured such a horrific act of violence this morning. No parent should ever fear for the safety of their children at school, especially as they gather to encounter the Lord in the Holy Sacrament of the Mass. No child should ever have to carry such grief and fear. No teacher or staff member should ever fear for their lives as they go about the noble work of caring for God’s children.

Sacred Scripture assures us that ‘The Lord is close to the brokenhearted, saves those whose spirit is crushed’ (Psalm 34:19). Christ himself has conquered sin, evil, and fear through the power of his Cross and Resurrection, and in him alone do we find our peace and security. May we respond to this tragedy today with prayer, solidarity, and the hope that only the Lord can give.

I ask all the faithful of our archdiocese to join me in prayer for the Annunciation Catholic community, for the deceased, the wounded, the grieving, and for the healing of a community torn apart by this tragedy. May Our Lady of the Annunciation intercede for them and for us all, that Christ, the Prince of Peace, may bring comfort and strength in this hour of sorrow.

Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May the souls of the faithfully departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.