CHARLOTTE — In response to today’s shooting at Annunciation Catholic School and Church in Minneapolis, the diocese’s Catholic Schools Office shared a message to parents asking everyone to stand in solidarity with the victims, their families and the entire parish community.
“Our hearts are with the victims of this morning’s shooting at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis,” said Dr. Greg Monroe, superintendent of the diocese’s 20 schools. “Let us unite in prayer for healing and peace for their families and the entire school and parish community.”
Monroe also reassured parents “that the safety of our students, faculty and staff remains our highest priority.”
“In recent years, we have invested in adding layered security measures, improved protocols and comprehensive training across all our campuses,” he said. “Our principals, teachers and staff are vigilant in following best practices on campus, during Mass and on trips away from school.”
He also said the diocese is reviewing the events in Minneapolis “to learn and identify any enhancements that could strengthen our own practices.”
In the same letter, Bishop Michael Martin asked parents to recommit to putting their faith into action:
“We are stunned by today’s shooting at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis. All human life is precious, especially our children. Let us stand in solidarity with the victims and their families, renounce violence in every form, and uphold the sacredness of life in every space where people – especially children and the most vulnerable – should live in safety and freedom.”
— Catholic News Herald