The FBI announced the incident is being investigated as an act of domestic terrorism and a hate crime against Catholics. The shooter died of a self-inflicted gunshot and has since been identified according to authorities.

Rhoades' statement is as follows:

“In the wake of the terrible tragedy in Minneapolis, the mass shooting at Annunciation Catholic Church, we stand in prayerful solidarity with the Annunciation Catholic school and parish community.  With them, we mourn the deaths of the two young children killed in the vicious attack and we pray for the full recovery of the 17 children and adults who were injured.  We pray for all the parents and families afflicted by this senseless act of violence.  I am reminded of the motto of Saint Benedict for his monks: 'Ora et labora,' which means 'Pray and work.'  It’s not 'prayer or work.'  So let us offer our continuing prayers for the victims of this horrible attack and also re-commit ourselves to action to eradicate gun violence in our country and to address the root causes of this violence, including the mental health crisis in our country.”

The Most Reverend Edward M. Lohse of the Diocese of Kalamazoo released the following statement:

“We are deeply saddened by the shooting that took place this morning at Annunciation Church and School in Minneapolis. Such an act of violence against children, the most innocent among us, is especially heinous, made even more so by the fact that they were worshipping at Mass.

Our prayers are with all those affected by this terrible event, especially the victims, their families, and the parish and school community.

I urge us all to continue to work for a world where these acts of violence no longer happen.

May the Blessed Mother, Queen of Peace, intercede for and protect all God’s children.”