News and Events

Declaración

Statement of Cardinal Blase J. Cupich, Archbishop of Chicago, on the Mercy Hospital Shooting

November 20, 2018

Once again violence has struck our country. This time close to home at a place founded in 1852 to provide care for Chicago’s sick and dying.

Officer Samuel Jimenez, a married father of three, had been with the Chicago Police Department for just 18 months. He was killed rushing to help.

Dr. Tamara O'Neal, a dedicated emergency room physician, known for her charitable activities was killed as she came to work.

Dayna Less, 25-year old pharmaceutical resident was just beginning her career and planning her wedding next year. She was killed as she just stepped off the elevator at her work.

All senselessly killed as they went about their day.  

In Chicago, more than 2,600 people have been victims of gun violence this year alone.

We need to take a hard look at what is happening in our homes and in our communities. Fear and violence are an unending cycle that must be broken. It is well past time. We must act.

Please join me in prayer for Officer Jimenez, Dr. O'Neal, Dayna Less, their families and friends, as well as all for those who work to maintain the peace and heal the sick here and around the world. Let us pray for healing in our city and turn our sorrow and sympathy to action.

For the Spanish version of the statement, please click here.