Dear Parishioners, Parents, and Students,
With a heavy heart, I write to you today in the wake of the horrific shooting that took place yesterday during the opening Mass at Annunciation School. Words cannot fully express the grief and shock we feel for our brothers and sisters who have suffered such a tragedy. We hold them in our deepest prayers, asking the Lord to bring healing, comfort, and peace to all those affected.
I also want to speak directly to you, the families and faithful of St. Matthias. Please know that your safety, and the safety of our students, staff, and parishioners, is of the highest priority. Since learning of this tragedy, we have been in direct communication with the Franklin Police Department. They have reassured us of their vigilance and commitment to protecting our community. We will continue to work closely with them to ensure that St. Matthias remains a safe and secure place of worship, learning, and community.
Please join me in keeping the Annunciation community in prayer during this most painful time. And let us recommit ourselves to being people of hope and courage in the face of darkness.
With prayers for you and your families,
Fr. Tom Lanza
Pastor, St. Matthias Parish & School