Statement from Bishop Edward B. Scharfenberger on the School Shooting in Minneapolis

A girl sits in her mother's lap as mourners attend a vigil at Lynnhurst Park in Minneapolis Aug. 27, 2025, following a shooting earlier in the day at Annunciation Church. A shooter opened fire with a rifle through the windows of the school's church and struck children attending Mass during the first week of school, killing two and wounding 17 people in an act of violence the police chief called "absolutely incomprehensible." (OSV News photo/Tim Evans, Reuters) (Courtesy photo of Tim Evans)

“There are no words to offer any peace to those who lost children gunned down as they were praying, except that they are in the loving hands of Jesus. This tragedy took place in what should be the safest and most sacred place. We can only take some solace in the fact that they were at prayer. Now we add our prayers to theirs. I urge all to join in prayer for their families, friends, teachers. Let us pray for those injured, some who may now be fighting for life, and for all impacted by this tragic act.

May we also join our prayers with all in need throughout the world, especially those suffering from violent acts. Evil exists but we serve a God who overcame even death. May God guide each of us to be sharers of His love, His healing grace, His hope. 

Moments like this can leave many of us feeling hopeless. Pray then for the grace to BE hope in the world, in even the smallest way. A simple act of kindness can be a great healing force.”