Growing memorial outside Annunciation tells a story of heartbreak and hope

MINNEAPOLIS — At Annunciation Catholic Church in south Minneapolis, the story outside is one of heartbreak and hope.

"There's a togetherness that gives us strength," said Father Leonard Andrie with St. Therese of Deephaven.

Fr. Andrie is one of many people to visit after a mass shooting led to a growing memorial outside the church.

"Lots of hope. Lots of tragedy, of course, and sorrow, but mixed also with light, hope and encouragement with our Lord," he said.

Flowers, cards, stuffed animals, candles, and more surround the entire outside of the church.

Messages in chalk can be found written on everything from the sidewalks to the boarded-up windows the suspect shot through. One boarded-up window says, "Love is stronger."

Next to shattered glass, written in chalk, is the Prayer of St.