The tragic event that unfolded this morning at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis is unsettling and devastating. Seeing this level of violence and wanton destruction of life is deeply troubling for all of us. It shatters our domestic tranquility and reminds us peace and security are fragile in a free society. 

At the same time, we fervently pray for the quiet repose of the young souls who died, for the recovery of those wounded, and for consolation of all the children, school personnel and families who will carry this experience throughout their lives. The grief and unspeakable sadness we experience now will give way to the peace and serenity only Christ can give to each of us. To those so affected by this unimaginable suffering, we, in the Diocese of Birmingham, express our closeness and solidarity in prayer. 

May God grant us the peace we long for!