The Church of the Annunciation is a Roman Catholic parish located at 509 54th Street West in the Windom neighborhood of southwest Minneapolis, Minnesota. Established in 1922, this multi-generational community is a prominent fixture of the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis. The parish is widely recognized for its striking mid-century modern architecture, its highly-rated International Baccalaureate (IB) K-8 parochial school, and its deep commitment to community outreach.

In recent months, the parish has become a symbol of resilience and faith-driven healing following a tragic event in August 2025. Today, it continues to serve as a spiritual home for hundreds of families, offering a full schedule of Masses, sacraments, and social ministries.

Liturgical Services and Mass Schedule

Spiritual life at the Church of the Annunciation centers on the celebration of the Eucharist and the availability of the sacraments. The parish follows a consistent schedule designed to accommodate both families and working professionals within the Minneapolis area.

Weekly Mass Times

The primary gathering for the community occurs during the Sunday liturgy, though daily Masses are a cornerstone for many parishioners seeking spiritual nourishment throughout the week.

  • Saturday (Anticipatory): 5:00 PM
  • Sunday: 9:30 AM (The principal community Mass)
  • Tuesday: 5:30 PM
  • Wednesday through Friday: 8:15 AM

Sacraments and Devotion

In addition to the Mass, the parish emphasizes the importance of reconciliation and perpetual adoration, maintaining a tradition of accessibility for those seeking private prayer.

  • Reconciliation: Confessions are heard on Tuesday from 5:00 PM to 5:15 PM, Friday from 8:45 AM to 9:15 AM, and Saturday from 4:00 PM to 4:35 PM.
  • Eucharistic Adoration: The parish offers perpetual adoration, allowing individuals to pray before the Blessed Sacrament at nearly any hour.
  • Healing Services: Following the events of late 2025, the parish has integrated specific prayer services focused on communal healing and peace.

Community Healing and the Hope and Healing Fund

The Church of the Annunciation and its school community are currently navigating a significant period of transition and recovery. On August 27, 2025, a tragic shooting occurred within the church during a school-wide Mass. The incident resulted in the loss of two students, Fletcher Merkel and Harper Moyski, and the perpetrator.

The Rite of Reparation

On December 6, 2025, Archbishop Bernard Hebda presided over a solemn Rite of Reparation at the church. This liturgical ceremony was essential for the reconsecration of the sacred space, addressing the trauma experienced by the community and restoring the sanctuary for its primary purpose of worship. The service was a private, deeply spiritual moment for parishioners to reclaim their place of peace.

The Hope and Healing Fund

To support the long-term needs of students, families, and staff affected by the tragedy, the parish established the Hope and Healing Fund. This initiative provides financial assistance for counseling services, security enhancements, and other essential resources required to foster a safe and supportive environment. The community’s focus has shifted toward a "Future Filled with Hope," a theme drawn from Jeremiah 29:11, which was selected by the parish for the 2025-2026 liturgical year.

Historical Foundation and Parish Evolution

The story of the Church of the Annunciation began on September 8, 1922, when Archbishop Dowling appointed Reverend Francis J. Lang as the founding pastor. The parish was born out of a necessity to serve the growing Catholic population in the southern reaches of Minneapolis.

The Early Years (1922–1945)

The first parish Mass was celebrated on October 1, 1922, in a community house on Pillsbury Avenue. Growth was rapid; within a year, the community moved to a combination church-school building. By September 1923, the school was operational with 72 pupils under the care of the Dominican Sisters. This dual focus on worship and education established the parish's identity from its inception.

Post-War Expansion and the 1962 Church

The post-World War II era brought a population boom to the Windom neighborhood. By the late 1950s, the original building could no longer sustain the congregation. Under the leadership of Father J.A. Byrnes, plans were set for a new worship space. The current church building was completed in 1962, representing a bold shift toward modern liturgical design.

The Visitation Parish Merger

A significant chapter in recent history occurred in 2013 when Visitation Parish merged with Annunciation. This consolidation was part of a broader archdiocesan strategic plan. The merger brought new families and physical artifacts from Visitation, enriching the Annunciation community and ensuring that the traditions of both parishes would continue in a unified South Minneapolis congregation.

Architectural Significance and Design

The Church of the Annunciation is frequently cited in architectural guides, such as the AIA Guide to the Twin Cities, for its distinctive mid-century modern aesthetic. Designed by the firm Patch and Erickson, the building stands as a testament to the theological and artistic shifts occurring in the early 1960s.

Structural Features

The church is constructed primarily of Mankato-Kasota limestone, a native Minnesota material known for its warm, buff-colored hues and durability. The building is characterized by:

  • The High Oblong Box: The main sanctuary features a high, rectangular profile under a low-pitched roof, creating a sense of monumental internal space.
  • The Campanile: To the left of the main entrance stands a separate bell tower, designed with the feel of an Italian campanile. It is surmounted by a cross and houses four bells named after the four Evangelists: Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.
  • Modern Stained Glass: Above the front facade's entrance, modern stained glass windows provide a colorful filter for natural light, contrasting with the solid, grounded feel of the limestone walls.
  • Interior Layout: The interior reflects the reforms of the Second Vatican Council, emphasizing clear sightlines and the proximity of the congregation to the altar.

Annunciation Catholic School and IB World Status

The Annunciation Catholic School serves students from Pre-Kindergarten through 8th grade. It distinguishes itself not only through its Catholic identity but also through its academic rigor as an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School, specifically implementing the Primary Years Programme (PYP).

The IB Philosophy in a Catholic Context

The integration of the IB program encourages students to be "inquirers, knowledgeable, thinkers, communicators, principled, open-minded, caring, risk-takers, balanced, and reflective." At Annunciation, these secular IB learner profile traits are harmonized with Catholic virtues. The school aims to form students who are not only academically proficient but also civic-minded and spiritually grounded.

Programs and Academic Excellence

The curriculum emphasizes:

  • Inquiry-Based Learning: Moving away from rote memorization toward creative problem-solving and hands-on projects.
  • Global Awareness: Cultivating an understanding of multicultural societies and global responsibility.
  • The Help-A-Student Fund: Ensuring that a Catholic education is accessible to families of all income levels, the parish maintains a robust financial aid program to bridge the tuition gap.

Ministries and Social Outreach

The Church of the Annunciation operates on the belief that faith must be put into action. The parish supports a wide array of ministries that serve the local Minneapolis community and international missions.

Local Community Support

  • Meals on Wheels: Parishioners regularly volunteer to deliver nutritious meals to seniors and individuals with disabilities throughout the Twin Cities.
  • Loaves and Fishes: The community participates in feeding programs to address food insecurity in the region.
  • Grief and Support Groups: Specialized ministries exist for those experiencing the death of a loved one, as well as support series for individuals going through separation or divorce.
  • Moms' Group: A dedicated space for mothers of all ages to share spiritual growth and receive peer support.

Global Missions

The parish maintains a long-standing partnership with Mission Haiti Inc. Through this "sister school" relationship, Annunciation supports education, elder care, and sustainable farming in Leogane, Haiti. The Annunciation Leogane school, opened in 1998, remains a focal point for the parish’s global advocacy and financial support.

Parish Life and Events

Annual events like Septemberfest serve as both fundraisers and community-building milestones. These festivals often feature local traditions, including the "Carlson’s Lovable Llamas" and various fellowship activities that draw neighbors from across South Minneapolis, regardless of their religious affiliation.

What to Expect When Visiting

For those new to the Windom neighborhood or considering joining the parish, the Church of the Annunciation offers a welcoming atmosphere that balances tradition with a modern outlook.

  • Parking and Accessibility: The church is located on 54th Street West, with street parking and designated lots available. The building is accessible to those with mobility challenges.
  • Fellowship: "Donuts and Fellowship" sessions are frequently held after Sunday Masses, providing an opportunity for new parishioners to meet the clergy and established members of the community.
  • Membership: The parish encourages formal registration to better serve the needs of families, particularly those intending to enroll children in the school or receive sacraments like Baptism or Matrimony.

Conclusion

The Church of the Annunciation in Minneapolis stands as a multifaceted institution—a historical landmark, a center for modern Catholic education, and a sanctuary for spiritual healing. While the tragedy of 2025 remains a somber chapter in its recent history, the parish’s commitment to its mission of proclaiming the Good News and serving the community has only strengthened. Through its "Future Filled with Hope" initiative and its continued dedication to the IB educational framework, Annunciation remains a vital and resilient heart of the South Minneapolis community.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the Mass times at Annunciation Church Minneapolis?

Masses are held on Saturdays at 5:00 PM and Sundays at 9:30 AM. Weekday Masses occur on Tuesdays at 5:30 PM and Wednesdays through Fridays at 8:15 AM.

Where is the Church of the Annunciation located?

The church is situated at 509 54th Street West, Minneapolis, MN 55419, in the Windom neighborhood.

Is the Annunciation Catholic School open to non-parishioners?

Yes, the school welcomes students from various backgrounds, although priority may be given to registered parishioners. It offers a Pre-K through 8th-grade curriculum with an International Baccalaureate focus.

How can I donate to the Hope and Healing Fund?

Donations can be made directly through the parish website or the parish office. The fund was established to provide long-term support for those affected by the August 2025 tragedy.

What happened during the August 2025 shooting at Annunciation?

On August 27, 2025, a shooting occurred during a school Mass. Two children, Fletcher Merkel and Harper Moyski, were killed. The church has since undergone a Rite of Reparation and focused its efforts on community healing and security.

Who is the current pastor of Annunciation Church?

As of July 1, 2025, Father Dennis Zehren serves as the pastor of the Church of the Annunciation.