Today we are confronted by tragedy with the loss of yet more innocent lives, the result of unimaginable violence against our most vulnerable – our children.
Let me express, on behalf of the entire Catholic community in western Massachusetts our sincere sympathy to those who have lost loved ones, to those injured and to the entire Annunciation
school community. Our thoughts and prayers are with them today and in the days to come.
Adding to this tremendous sadness is that this act of violence took place in a church – the place where we gather together to encounter the living Lord in prayerful peace and renewal.
The Catholic Schools Office, working with our diocesan and civic agencies will review safety precautions in our schools and in our churches. We will take every precaution to keep our students and staff safe and protected. We will not abandon our faith traditions including the importance of our youth attending Mass.
Most Rev. William D. Byrne
Bishop of Springfield