The Catholic community is united in grief following Wednesday’s tragic shooting at Annunciation Catholic Church and School in Minneapolis. During morning Mass, a gunman opened fire through the windows of the church pews where children were seated, killing two young students and wounding many others.
The victims have been identified as eight-year-old Fletcher Merkel and ten-year-old Harper Moyski.
Fletcher Merkel
Fletcher’s father, Jesse, spoke with profound sorrow about his son. “Yesterday, a coward decided to take our eight-year-old son Fletcher away from us,” he said at a news conference, according to the Daily Mail. “Because of their actions, we will never be allowed to hold him, talk to him, play with him and watch him grow into the wonderful young man he was on the path to becoming.”
Jesse also urged others to treasure the gift of their children: “Give your kids an extra hug and kiss today.” He described Fletcher as a boy who loved “his family, friends, fishing, cooking, and any sport that he was allowed to play” (ABC News).
“While the hole in our hearts and lives will never be filled, I hope that in time, our family can find healing. I pray that the other victim’s family can find some semblance of the same,” he added.
Harper Moyski
Harper’s parents, Michael Moyski and Jackie Flavin, remembered their daughter as a source of light and joy. In a statement shared with ABC News, they said: “Harper was a bright, joyful, and deeply loved 10-year-old whose laughter, kindness, and spirit touched everyone who knew her.”
They shared that the loss has devastated their family: “Our hearts are broken not only as parents, but also for Harper’s sister, who adored her big sister and is grieving an unimaginable loss. As a family, we are shattered, and words cannot capture the depth of our pain.”
In addition to the two children killed, 18 others were injured in the attack, with Endre Gunter, 13, and Sophia Forchas, 12, among those still fighting for their lives (Daily Mail). One child remains hospitalized, while others have been treated and discharged.
Authorities continue to investigate why the parish school was targeted, though they note the shooter had past ties to Annunciation.
For Catholics everywhere, this tragedy pierces the heart. Families had gathered at Annunciation to worship God in the Holy Mass, only to be struck by violence. Yet even in sorrow, we are reminded of Christ’s words: “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these” (Matthew 19:14).
We entrust Fletcher and Harper to the mercy of God, praying that their innocence is now crowned with eternal joy. We lift up their families, classmates, teachers, and parish community, asking the Lord to pour His comfort and strength upon them.
Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May their souls, and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.
