One year after the horrific mass shooting at Annunciation Catholic Church, many across the Minneapolis community are actively working toward healing.
To honor the Annunciation community, the City of Minneapolis will hold a Day of Service and Remembrance at Pearl Park on Aug. 27, from 1 to 5 p.m.
Community members are invited to plant flowers and trees, assemble care kits for youth experiencing homelessness, and collect school supplies for students in Minneapolis Public Schools. Attendees can reserve their spots online or just stop by.
The Remembrance Day will also recognize the city’s first responders and staff who supported recovery efforts following the tragedy.
How to honor and participate from home
For those unable to attend the Pearl Park gathering, Annunciation representatives share several ways to show support from anywhere:
- Ring Bells of Peace: Local places of worship are encouraged to ring their bells at 8:26 a.m.
- Light the Night: Residents are asked to place two candles or lights in their front windows in memory of Harper and Fletcher, the two students who lost their lives in the shooting.
- Acts of Kindness: Centered around this year’s theme, “Guide Our Feet Into the Way of Peace,” everyone is encouraged to serve neighbors or perform acts of kindness throughout the day.
All events taking place at Annunciation Catholic Church are private and closed to the general public.
The Annunciation community asks supporters not to send stuffed animals, flowers, food, or other physical donations. Instead, those wishing to support can contribute directly to the Annunciation Hope and Healing Fund through the Catholic Community Foundation. As of July 31, the fund has raised nearly $5 million to support long-term recovery and mental health efforts.