How and What to Pray During Times of School Shootings: A Reflection Through the Lens of Anne Frank

A woman holds a tiny cross pendant in her hands, praying with deep devotion.

In moments of unimaginable tragedy—like school shootings—words often fail. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and the community in Minneapolis. The grief is raw, the fear is real, and the questions are endless. In such times, prayer becomes not just a spiritual act but a lifeline. For some, prayer seems empty and inadequate. For the believer, our question is, how do we pray when the world feels shattered? What do we say to God when our hearts are broken?  What comfort can prayer bring when families’ lives have been altered beyond imagination? We know prayer won’t bring back their little ones, it won’t restore a sense of safety, and the images and feelings of that day may never truly heal. How do we pray, and what do we pray in times like these?

1. Praying in the Midst of Chaos

Prayer during a school shooting or its aftermath is not about having the perfect words. It’s about showing up before God with our pain, confusion, and longing for peace. Here are some ways to pray:

• For the victims and their families: “Lord, be near to the brokenhearted. Comfort those who mourn. Wrap them in your peace that surpasses understanding.” (Psalm 34:18)

• For students and teachers: “God, protect our schools. Give courage to those who walk into classrooms each day. Let fear not take root, but let love and safety prevail.”

• For communities: “Heal our neighborhoods. Unite us in compassion and action. Let us be your heart, hands, and feet to those in need.”

• For change: “Lord, raise up leaders with wisdom and courage. Help us address the root causes of violence. Let justice and mercy guide our steps.”

  
  

These prayers are not passive. They are active cries for healing, protection, and transformation. 

2. Anne Frank: A Voice of Hope in Darkness

Anne Frank, a young Jewish girl hiding from the Nazis during World War II, knew something of fear and isolation. Although not devout initially, her diary reveals a growing spiritual depth during her time in the Secret Annex.

In March 1944, Anne wrote, “For me, God has become something tangible. I feel His presence in my thoughts and ideals. I trust Him and hope to deepen that trust.” She found solace in nature, writing, “The best remedy for those who are frightened, lonely or unhappy is to go outside… and be alone with the sky, nature and God.” Even in the face of suffering, Anne believed that “God will lift us up again” and that their suffering might teach the world about goodness. Her reflections remind us that prayer is not just asking for rescue—it’s also about finding meaning, courage, and connection in the midst of suffering.

3. What Anne Frank Teaches Us About Prayer

Anne’s prayers weren’t polished. They were honest. She questioned, she hoped, she doubted, and she trusted. That’s the kind of prayer we need in times of crisis:

• Honest prayer: It’s okay to ask “Why?” and “Where are you, God?”

• Hopeful prayer: Even when the world feels broken, we can pray for healing and restoration.

• Empathetic prayer: We pray not just for ourselves, but for others—especially those most affected.

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Anne’s spiritual journey reminds us that even in hiding, even in fear, even in the shadow of death—prayer can be a source of light.

A group of teens gather in a classroom, hands joined in prayer, reflecting unity and faith as part of their school routine.

4. A Prayer for Today

“God of mercy, we come to you with heavy hearts. Another school shooting has shattered lives. We don’t understand, but we trust that you are near. Comfort the grieving, protect the vulnerable, and stir us to action. Let our prayers rise not just as words, but as commitments to love, protect, and heal. In Jesus' name, Amen.”