A Tragic Day at the Church of the Annunciation

The shooting at Minneapolis’ Church of the Annunciation on August 27, 2025, left the community shaken. Nearly 200 children were gathered for Mass when gunfire erupted through the church windows. Two children were killed, and several others were seriously wounded. Among the victims was 12-year-old Sophia Forchas, who suffered one of the most severe injuries.

A Fight for Survival

Sophia was rushed to Hennepin County Medical Center, where surgeons performed an emergency procedure to relieve pressure on her brain. Her neurosurgeon, Dr. Walt Galicich, said part of her skull was removed to control swelling. “We were deeply concerned she wouldn’t survive,” Galicich explained. “But she showed extraordinary strength and determination.”

A Slow but Miraculous Recovery

Doctors kept Sophia in critical condition for days as her family and community prayed for her recovery. Gradually, she began to respond and move on her own. By late September, hospital officials confirmed that her condition had improved from critical to serious. The bullet remains lodged in her brain, but she continues to defy expectations.

“She’s making progress we didn’t think possible this soon,” Galicich said in a recent update.

Hope for the Future

Sophia has since transitioned from intensive care to an inpatient rehabilitation unit. Her family says she’s smiling again and working daily to regain her strength. Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara called her recovery “nothing short of miraculous,” reflecting the hope she’s brought to a city still healing from tragedy.