‘Peace, Fortitude, Consolation': Pope Leo XIV Condemns 'Terrible Tragedy' In Minneapolis

Last Updated:August 28, 2025, 02:54 IST

Annunciation Catholic School serves children from pre-kindergarten through to eighth grade, with more than 300 students enrolled.

Pope Leo XIV has offered his condolences to the Minneapolis community (AP Photo file)

The tragic shooting in Minneapolis, Minnesota, on Wednesday has left the nation in shock. With two children confirmed dead and around 19 others reported injured, the attack is being described as one of the most heinous crimes in recent memory, targeting children and worshippers during a morning mass at a Catholic school.

Pope Leo XIV has offered his condolences to the Minneapolis community following the deadly incident at Annunciation Catholic School. Archbishop Bernard Hebda of Minneapolis received a telegram from the Pope, in which he conveyed “his heartfelt condolences and the assurance of spiritual closeness to all those affected by this terrible tragedy, especially the families now grieving the loss of a child." The message was signed by Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin.

The Pope added, “While commending the souls of the deceased children to the love of Almighty God, His Holiness prays for the wounded as well as the first responders, medical personnel and clergy who are caring for them and their loved ones." He also extended an apostolic blessing to the archdiocese “as a pledge of peace, fortitude, and consolation in the Lord Jesus."

Annunciation Catholic School serves children from pre-kindergarten through to eighth grade, with more than 300 students enrolled. Some pupils are as young as three years old. The shooting occurred during a morning parochial mass when the gunman, identified as Robert Westman, opened fire from outside the church building. Witnesses reported dozens of rounds being fired, with Westman specifically targeting children and worshippers attending the service.

Two children were killed in the attack, and over 17 others were injured, with 14 of them children, and three adults in their 80s. According to the Minneapolis Police Department, all of the injured are expected to survive. Following the shooting, Westman took his own life on the scene.

Authorities have yet to establish a clear motive. However, multiple search warrants were executed on Wednesday. Investigators revealed that Westman had uploaded a manifesto to YouTube prior to the attack. The video has since been taken down by the FBI but is being thoroughly analysed. Police confirmed that the three firearms used in the shooting were purchased recently and legally.

Washington D.C., United States of America (USA)

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