Annunciation Elementary School in Minneapolis

Joe Egbert
Aug 27
2 min read

A statement from Bishop Peter F. Christensen

August 27, 2025

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

It is with a heart heavy with sorrow and profound grief that I address you today, following the horrific act of violence that has shattered the peace of Annunciation Elementary School in Minneapolis during morning Mass. Our entire diocese, and indeed the wider community, is reeling from the senseless loss of innocent lives and the wounding of many others. The news of this tragedy has pierced us deeply, and our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their families, and all who have been affected by this unspeakable act.

In moments such as these, when darkness seems to overwhelm, we are called to cling to the light of our faith. We recall the words of Saint Paul, “If one member suffers in the body of Christ which is the Church, all the members suffer with that member”

(1 Corinthians 12:26). This truth resonates powerfully today, as we collectively bear the pain of those who mourn. Christian consolation is rooted in the hope that comes from faith in the saving death and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. While we face the reality of death and the anguish of grief, we trust confidently that the risen Lord has vanquished the power of sin and death.

As your Bishop, I call upon all members of our diocesan family—priests, deacons, religious, and laypersons—to participate in a ministry of consolation despite our distance: to care for the suffering, to pray for the dead and injured, and to comfort those who mourn. Let us offer reassuring words, compassionate embraces, and prayers that strengthen us all. Sometimes, our presence and silent prayers, itself can be a powerful expression of shared suffering and love.

My dear brothers and sisters, we know that on our journey through life, we often encounter violence, death, and unspeakable evil, but this does not discourage us or leave us abandoned. Prayer and the collective witness of salvation history teach us to see God’s signs, his presence, and his action, despite the reality of evil and grave injustice. Let us continue to be beacons of light in the midst of darkness empowering us to never tire in spreading Gospel hope and showing that the ultimate victory is God’s.

Let us unite ourselves as a family in prayer throughout the Diocese seeking the powerful intercession of St. Michael the Archangel:

St. Michael the Archangel,

defend us in battle.

Be our defense against the wickedness and snares of the Devil.

May God rebuke him, we humbly pray,

and do thou,

O Prince of the heavenly hosts,

by the power of God,

thrust into hell Satan,

and all the evil spirits,

who prowl about the world

seeking the ruin of souls. Amen.