Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., has issued the following statement on the shooting today in a Minneapolis church:

August 27, 2025

In the wake of the heartbreaking violence at Annunciation Catholic Church today in Minneapolis, our hearts are heavy with sorrow. We rightly expect that a church should be a place of sanctuary and peace. What should have been a joyful celebration for Catholic school students to begin a new school year has become the latest tragedy that we now struggle to comprehend. Together with Catholics across the Diocese of Fall River, I mourn the innocent lives lost and pray for healing for all those affected—students, families, educators, and the entire community.

This afternoon, I sent an email to all our parishes, reminding them of the importance of being proactive in ensuring the safety of parishioners and with schools, their students, faculty, and families. I shared that while faith is our foundation, preparedness is a form of stewardship. To help them prepare, the communications included parish safety and security guidance provided to us by our insurance company.

May God bring comfort to those grieving, strength to those recovering, and peace to a community shaken by violence. Let us pray for the safety of all children and school faculty and staff around the country.

Diocese of Fall River
Diocese of Fall River
Office of Communications