Pope Leo XIV has expressed his “profound sorrow” and offered heartfelt condolences following a tragic shooting at the Annunciation Catholic church and school complex in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
The shooting, which occurred during a back-to-school Mass, resulted in the deaths of two children, aged 8 and 10, and injuries to 17 other individuals, including 14 children.
In a telegram sent to Archbishop Bernard Hebda of Minneapolis, the Pope entrusted the souls of the deceased children to God and assured all those affected of his spiritual closeness.
He also offered prayers for the wounded, first responders, medical personnel, and local clergy who are providing support.
The Pope concluded his message by imparting his Apostolic Blessing on the Annunciation Catholic School community and the entire Minneapolis metropolitan area.
Archbishop Hebda, while grateful for the outpouring of global prayers, emphasized the broken hearts of the community and called for an end to gun violence, which he noted has become far too common.
His sentiments were echoed by other leaders, including Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and US President Donald Trump, who also expressed their sadness and concern over the horrific event.
The shooter, whose motive remains unknown, took his own life at the scene.
