Shortly after two children were killed and 17 other people were injured in a mass shooting during Mass at a Minneapolis, Minn. Catholic school yesterday (Wednesday), Bishop of the Sioux City Diocese John Keehner released a written statement, saying, “Our hearts are heavy upon learning of another event of school violence this (Wednesday) morning. We offer our prayers to those affected by the tragic shooting at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis. As we begin a new school year, let us pray for the safety of our children and school faculty and staff around the nation.” The mass shooter killed himself in the church parking lot following the attack. Leaders from throughout the U.S. have released similar statements condemning the heinous act, noting that it has cast a pall over the typical excitement that comes with the back-to-school season for students, teachers, and parents.
