Statement from Bishop Mark Eckman on the Mass Shooting in Minneapolis

We are devastated by the horrific violence that shattered what should have been a holy moment of grace at Annunciation Catholic Church in Minneapolis, where children had gathered for a back-to-school Mass. We hold close in prayer the students, families, teachers, parish community, and first responders. We ask the Lord to bring healing to the injured, eternal rest to those who have died, and consolation to all who mourn.

This story touches our local Church in a particular way. Archbishop Bernard Hebda, who shepherds the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis, is a native son of the Diocese of Pittsburgh. We hold him, the victims, and their grieving families in our hearts.

Here at home, our Diocesan Director of Safety and Security, Wendell Hissrich, continues to actively monitor developments and to remain in close contact with law enforcement. Our schools remain vigilant, and followed established safety protocols today, as they do every day. We are grateful for the professionalism of our administrators, teachers, and staff who work each day to keep our children safe.

As people of faith, we turn instinctively to prayer in moments like this. And prayer must move us to action, to comfort the grieving, to bring healing to the wounded, and to be voices for peace and the sanctity of every life.

May Mary, Our Lady of the Annunciation, intercede for comfort and strength. And may the Lord, the Prince of Peace, bind up every broken heart and guide us to a world where children can learn, play, and pray in safety.