“Chief Mike Hardy is handling the investigation with cooperation of the Vermilion Parish Sheriff’s [Office] and assistance from the FBI,” the statement continued. “Out of an abundance of caution, we will have uniformed law enforcement at all upcoming Masses.”
RELATED: Church Groundskeeper Beaten and Robbed in Broad Daylight
“We invite First Communicants to receive First Holy Communion at whichever Mass they choose to attend this weekend,” the statement concluded. “We are grateful for all the prayers for our St. Mary Magdalen community.”
On Monday, the church posted an image of a child at the First Communion service to Facebook alongside a prayer.
“All-powerful and ever living God, your Son, Jesus Christ, taught us to not be afraid of pain and suffering. As we face this world’s uncertainties and challenges, send your Spirit to sustain, nourish, and fortify us for wherever life takes us,” the post read. “Help us to remain faithful in good times and bad until we see you again and rejoice in your presence forever. Grant this through Christ our Lord. Amen.”
The suspect has been charged with one count of terrorizing and two counts of possession of a firearm by a juvenile.
RELATED: Pastor’s Suicide Was ‘Wrong,’ but He’s in Heaven Now, Says Church Founder
The incident is still under investigation.
.){kind=link}