August 27, 2025

Edmonton Catholic Schools joins the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis, as well as the broader Catholic community, in mourning the tragic events at Annunciation Catholic Parish and School in Minneapolis.

This morning, two children were killed, and 17 others were injured, in a shooting during a Catholic Mass to mark the first week of school.

Pope Leo XIV was “profoundly saddened” to learn about the shooting at Annunciation Catholic School. He sent his condolences “to all those affected by this terrible tragedy, especially the families now grieving the loss of a child.”

Today in our schools and sites, we pause in prayer to remember the parents, families, and friends of the dead, the injured, and the suffering; for the medical teams and first responders at the scene; and for the broader Catholic community. May God’s compassion and goodness surround all those who grieve.

Let us pray: 

Loving Father, you sent your Son into the world to redeem us by his Cross and Resurrection. In our shock and confusion, we come before you. In our despair amid hate, in our sense of helplessness in the face of violence, we lean on you. We ask for peace in our minds, bodies, and souls, and for the courage and strength to help heal the moments of stress and grief in our lives. Send your Holy Spirit to bring light to the darkness, comfort to the weary, and peace to the violence.

In solidarity with our brothers and sisters in Christ, and through the intercession of our Most Blessed Mother, Mary, the Mother of God, we ask you to guide and protect us: “Hail Mary, Full of Grace, The Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners now, and at the hour of death. Amen.”

Almighty God, your power brings us to birth, and your providence guides our lives. Entrust the beloved children of Annunciation School to your everlasting love and heavenly kingdom. Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord. And let perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace. Amen. May their souls and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

Through Christ our Lord, who is our hope. Amen.

Supports and Resources

We recognize that events like this can evoke a range of emotions within our school communities. Support is available for students, families, and staff. Visit ecsd.net/health-and-well-being for additional mental health resources.