08/27/2026
Today is the one-year anniversary of the school shooting at Annunciation. I rode my bike past the church just as the bells were tolling. It was gut-wrenching. There were many people quietly praying and walking the church grounds. There was a police presence, which I think was comforting.
That day rocked our community. Two young children lost their lives, others were injured, and families, teachers, first responders, and our whole community were left carrying grief that continues today.
On Thursday, the sanctuary of Lake Harriet United Methodist Church will be open from 9:30-5:00 for anyone who would like a quiet place to pray, remember, or simply sit in God's presence.
For the safety of the children in our preschool, our church doors remain locked during the school day. The outer doors will be open; come into the entryway and ring the doorbell, and someone will buzz you in.
As we remember Annunciation, we continue to hold all those whose lives were forever changed that day in our prayers.
🙏🙏🏼Prayer for Annunciation Catholic Church/School and for Our Community.
God of compassion,
One year later, we remember.
We remember the children whose lives were taken.
We remember those who were injured.
We remember families, teachers, classmates, first responders,
and all who carry the wounds of that day.
We remember a community whose heart was broken.
We remember the heroic efforts of bystanders, and police officers, first responders, and medical staff at hospitals.
Hold close those for whom this anniversary brings fresh grief,
fear, anger, and trauma.
Surround them with your tender presence.
And as we remember, strengthen our resolve to build a world
where children are safe, where violence does not have the final
word, and where we learn again and again the ways that lead to
peace.
God, hold our broken hearts.
Hold the Annunciation community.
Hold all of us.
And lead us toward healing, hope, and peace.
