09/03/2025
In Memory of Minneapolis — Reflections from Rabbi Noam E. Marans, American Jewish Committee from August 31, 2025:
Dear Seton Hall University, Friends, All,
On this Christian Sabbath morning, when many Catholic friends will attend Sunday Mass, I am thinking of the Minneapolis Annunciation Catholic Church and School families and community irreparably affected by the deadly violence perpetrated against them last week. As a Jewish friend, I am reaching out to you in solidarity during a sad and challenging time for American Catholics. We are with you in this moment as we struggle together to assure that our faith institutions remain both open and safe.
No doubt, rabbis across America leading prayers yesterday on the Jewish Sabbath included particular mention of the Minneapolis community, as was the case in my home synagogue.
We pray for the dead, the wounded of body and soul, and for all who continue to be affected by this scourge in American society.
We pray that we might find the strength together to do what we can to put an end to this unacceptable plague visited upon our communities.
Here are AJC’s public statements on the day of the shooting:
What AJC is Saying | “We are heartbroken by the horrific shooting at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis, which occurred as students gathered for Mass. Two children are dead and many others are injured. Our thoughts are with the victims, their families, and the wider Catholic community. No one should ever face violence in a place of learning and worship, and no community should have to endure such pain. We pray for the swift recovery of those injured. May our memory of those lost be for a blessing.”
What AJC CEO Ted Deutch is Saying | “I’m sick about today’s shooting in Minneapolis. My heart aches for the families of the two children who were killed. I am praying for the 17 injured, including 14 children. I’m thinking of our friends in the Catholic community and wish there is more I could do than say I’m sorry that a killer attacked a Catholic school and church during mass, but I am so very, very sorry. And I’m thinking of every victim, family member and survivor of gun violence from Parkland and the many communities who have suffered the enormity of loss that the Minneapolis community is feeling today. And I’m so grateful for the heroism that helped save lives today. No one should fear going to school. No one should fear going to pray with their community. Everyone should rally behind the many families who are feeling this pain or revisiting their own trauma tonight. I know that I am.”
In friendship and with empathy and blessings of shalom,
Rabbi Noam E. Marans
