By Mark Ellis —
A devastating shooting at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis shattered a peaceful morning Mass on August 27, claiming the lives of two children, ages 8 and 10, and the shooter, while injuring 17 others.
The tragedy unfolded around 8:30 a.m. at the church on West 54th Street, where students and families gathered to celebrate the new school year.
Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara called the event “absolutely incomprehensible”. The shooter, identified as 23-year-old Robin Westman from suburban Minneapolis, fired through the church windows with a rifle, shotgun, and pistol, targeting worshipers before dying of a self-inflicted gunshot wound in the parking lot, police reported, according to Fox News.
Of the 17 injured, 14 are children, with six in critical condition at Children’s Minnesota Hospital, CBS Minnesota reported.
The attack struck during a sacred moment at Annunciation, a private elementary school with about 395 students. Parents rushed to a nearby reunification zone, grappling with fear and grief. “I am beyond heartbroken,” said a local pastor, speaking anonymously while praying with families. “We cling to Jesus, trusting His comfort for those who mourn.”
Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey rejected platitudes, noting, “These kids were literally praying. They should be safe in school or church,” he told The New York Times.
The shooting, Minneapolis’ fourth deadly incident in 24 hours, underscored the city’s struggle with violence. Governor Tim Walz, briefed on the tragedy, spoke with President Donald Trump, who offered prayers on Truth Social: “The FBI is on the scene, and we will monitor this terrible situation”.
Amid the sorrow, stories of bravery surfaced. A parishioner with a concealed carry permit reportedly helped stop the attack, though police have not confirmed details, according to Sky News.
Neighbor Pat Scallen heard up to 50 shots, and said, “You just pray and hope everyone’s okay,” MPR News reported.
As the Annunciation community gathered to pray, Psalm 34:18 offered solace: “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted.” Local churches are planning vigils to support families.
“These children were seeking God,” a ministry leader shared. “We trust He holds them now”
The tragedy has reignited calls for school safety, but for Annunciation’s families, faith remains a cornerstone. The Body of Christ in Minneapolis is uniting to offer love and hope through Jesus Christ.
