By CatholicPhilly Staff • Posted August 27, 2025

In response to the deadly shooting at Annunciation B.V.M. Church in Minneapolis on Aug. 27,  Archbishop Nelson J. Pérez issued a statement calling for prayer, healing, and a united stand against violence, especially in sacred spaces.

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“Today’s news of the horrific shooting of Catholic school students praying in their church in Minneapolis brings feelings of outrage and sadness to all people. The shock and deep sorrow over the murders of two innocent children, and the serious injuries sustained by many others, are intensified among Catholics as this senseless and evil act took place during the holy sacrifice of the Mass.

As we grapple with a sense of pain and anxiety that has become all too familiar, I ask all people of goodwill to join me in fervent prayer for the victims of the shooting at Annunciation B.V.M. Church and those struggling in its aftermath.

May God our Father pour His tender mercy upon the departed and hold them forever in His loving embrace. May the Lord comfort their parents, family members, and friends. May God heal those who are injured and seized by emotional trauma. As we lift our hearts in thanksgiving for the bravery of the law enforcement officers and medical first responders who responded to the scene in Minneapolis and who work to protect our cities throughout the country, may our Blessed Mother wrap them in the mantle of her protection.

As a united people, let us pray for the grace not to give in to fear, but to trust in God’s providence when we enter public spaces, including churches. Even as we deal with pain and loss in this time of grief, we must commit to acts of peace and uphold God’s most precious gift, that of human life.

Words and prayers alone are not enough. Let us work together through acts of kindness and charity to build a peaceful nation where all people, especially all children, can live and grow free from fear. May God give wisdom to our leaders as we work together to stamp out the evil we have witnessed today and to do so for good.”

Most Reverend Nelson J. Pérez, D.D.
Archbishop of Philadelphia