In New Orleans, the Catholic community is grappling with shock and sadness after the shooting in Minneapolis, and from schools to the pews, people are sharing their grief and their prayers for peace.
In a city with more than 500,000 Catholic parishioners, news of a shooting at a Catholic school during mass sent shock waves through the community.
“I was horrified, and I was saddened, both as a Catholic, a Christian, as well as just a human being and having been a former teacher,” said Marcia Wall.
Authorities said they’re now investigating whether the attack was targeted against Catholics, something Wall prays isn’t true.
“I sincerely hope that that’s not the case. At the very least, right, it’s an attack on humanity,” said Wall.
Dr. Tom Ryan teaches theology at Loyola University, a Jesuit school. He believes tragedy strikes deep and fear may cloud some in the Catholic community, but he hopes that through this act of darkness, may come light.
“I imagine that this issue would come up in a sermon, and I think ultimately, a priest will preach on hope and love,” said Ryan.
He said these attacks on safe havens are happening too often, forcing places that should be sanctuaries into fortresses.
“We have preparation for dangerous situations, and we want to be ready,” said Ryan.
He hopes to never use those measures, saying awareness is critical and so is compassion.
“To break down walls and connect with other people and to be people of hope who ask hard questions like how can we prevent this in the future,” said Ryan.
Wall urges people to hold their loved ones tight and hopes these places we view as sanctuaries once again feel safe.
“Some of the place where we should be the most safe whether it is church or school, we’re not,” said Wall.
READ MORE:Local Catholics react to Minneapolis shooting during Mass
