Diocese of Davenport
Office of Bishop
August 27, 2025
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
In the wake of the recent acts of violence that have shaken Annunciation Catholic School and the
greater Minneapolis community, we encourage parents and educators to come together to offer not
only our prayers but support. These events have left many feeling vulnerable, searching for comfort
and reassurance, and seeking the hope that our faith inspires. In times of darkness, we are called
as
Christians to be bearers of light, to remember the words of Christ: “Peace I leave with you; my
peace I give you” (John 14:27). It is in this spirit of peace, solidarity, and unwavering faith
that we reaffirm our commitment to the values that define us and the mission that guides our
Catholic schools as well as Annunciation Catholic School.
We stand with the students, faculty, staff, and families of Annunciation Catholic School, affirming
our commitment to the sanctity of life and the call to build communities founded on compassion and
nonviolence. Our faith teaches us not to respond with retaliation or fear, but with forgiveness,
understanding, and a resolve to heal.
We invite every member of our Diocese of Davenport Catholic school communities to join in prayer
for Annunciation Catholic School as well as for the safety of all students, the well-being of all
faculty and staff, and the healing of all who are hurting. We pray for peace and for the courage to
confront evil with goodness, and for the wisdom to protect all children regardless of what school
they attend.
Pope Francis reminded us: “Let us pray for peace: peace in the world and in each of our hearts.”
May our actions reflect our faith, and may all school communities emerge stronger, more unified,
and more determined than ever before to live out the Gospel.
Sincerely yours in Christ,
Most Rev. Dennis G. Walsh
Bishop of Davenport
PDF: Bishop Walsh’s Statement on Annunciation School Tragedy
