Diocese of Crookston Statement and Letter following the Annunciation School shooting

TO: Diocese of Crookston Faithful
FROM: The Most Rev. Andrew H. Cozzens
DATE: August 27, 2025
RE: In Grief and Solidarity with Annunciation School

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

My heart was filled with grief and shock to hear this morning of the shooting during Mass at Annunciation School in south Minneapolis. As Vicar for Catholic Education in the Archdiocese from 2013-–2021, I had the privilege of celebrating school Masses at Annunciation on more than one occasion. I consider Fr. Zehren, the pastor of Annunciation, a friend and colleague from my years of service there.

My thoughts and prayers went immediately to the parents who lost children, and to the many children, families, and staff who have been deeply traumatized. I join Archbishop Bernard Hebda in begging for prayers for the priests and faithful of the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis that “the healing that only God can bring will be poured out on all those who were present at this morning’s Mass and particularly for the affected families who are only now beginning to comprehend the trauma they sustained.”

This kind of violence is far too common in our society. We are devastated when it strikes so close to home. Jesus Christ in his Cross is the great healer. He shows us how violence can lead to love. Let us pray and work so that this transformation of love which flows from his heart on the Cross may flow through us and bring healing to our society.

I spoke with Archbishop Hebda this afternoon and promised him the prayers and condolences of the Diocese of Crookston. I will offer Mass at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception tomorrow morning, Thursday, August 28, at 7:45 a.m. for the repose of those who were killed and for the healing of those who have been injured or traumatized. We will pray for an end to this violence in our world. I ask all the faithful to pray the Rosary for those who have died, those who are traumatized, and for the healing of our world.

Sincerely In Christ,

The Most Rev. Andrew H. Cozzens, S.T.D., D.D.
Bishop of Crookston

 Released by:
 Janelle Gergen, Chancellor / Chief Operating Officer
 jgergen@crookston.org