Minneapolis Basilica Offers Mass for Alex Pretti, who Grew Up Catholic, and Priest who Worked with Pretti Recalled His Kindness

"Hands That Healed": Basilica Honors Slain Nurse Alex Pretti Amid Calls for Compassion

MINNEAPOLIS — On Sunday Jan. 25, 2026, at Minneapolis' Basilica of Saint Mary, a Mass was held for Alex Pretti and his family. Clergy and parishioners gathered not only to mourn a life lost but to challenge the narrative of vilification directed at the local nurse by federal officials.

A Legacy of Kindness and Gentleness

The University of Minnesota alumnus (CLA ’11) who grew up in the Catholic faith, was remembered by those who worked alongside him as a man whose vocation was a direct reflection of the Gospel call to serve. Father Harry Tasto, who served as a chaplain at the VA hospital with Pretti for a decade, spoke to a crowded pews about the nurse's reputation for "kindness and gentleness" toward his patients.

The tribute was held at the specific request of the Archbishop, signaling the Archdiocese's commitment to standing with the Pretti family.

"I am writing 'hands that healed, a soul that shined,'" said one Minneapolis resident, who, despite never meeting Pretti, felt compelled to leave a message at the growing memorial outside the VA hospital.

Challenging the "Villain" Narrative

The service took on a poignant tone as clergy addressed the "deluge of federal enforcement" and the rhetoric used by officials that has sought to cast Pretti in a negative light. In a direct appeal to the faithful, Father Harry urged the community to look past the political noise.

• The Message: Do not give weight to the vilification coming from national leaders.

• The Focus: Return to the core Christian values of compassion and service.

• The Symbol: Attendees were invited to take home blessed candles to keep the light of Pretti’s memory alive in their own homes.

A Universal Impact

The reach of Pretti's life extended far beyond the Catholic community. Katie Bartlett, a resident of Maple Grove who is not Catholic, felt a spiritual "pull" to attend the Basilica service. "It spoke to me to come and bring a candle for Alex," she said, echoing a sentiment shared by many who view the current federal targeting of immigrants and their advocates as a moral crisis.

Beyond the sanctuary, the cycling community—where Pretti was a beloved fixture—is also mobilizing.

As the memorial continues to grow, the message from the Basilica remains clear: In the face of vilification, the Church chooses the path of the healer.

Please pray for the repose of his soul and his family.

STATEMENT by The Basilica of St. Mary:
I am deeply saddened to learn of the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti, a Minneapolis resident and an intensive care nurse for the Veteran’s Administration. My heart breaks for his family and friends who grieve Alex’s loss and will no doubt experience acute pain as a result of his death. Join me in holding all of them up in fervent prayer.
The Twin Cities community is experiencing indescribable grief and trauma these past many days in the wake of the violent death of Renee Good and the tumult that has followed. This continues to be a time of fear and anguish – including for our immigrant brothers and sisters, many of whom remain at home – understandably absent from work, school, and church.
In the midst of the suffering and dismay, Minnesotans are also coming together to talk, to grieve, and to pray. The light is shining in the darkness. This was the case on Friday as Temple Israel hosted a gathering of light and faith for Minnesotans of faith and people of good will. It was an inspiring gathering for those who attended.
At The Basilica of Saint Mary – our doors remain open this weekend for Sunday Masses and for fellowship – all are welcome. Please join me in also praying for the safety and wellbeing of all in our Twin Cities community.
Sunday evening’s Mass at The Basilica will be offered for Alex Pretti, his family, and for the Twin Cities community.
May the God of goodness and compassion soon deliver us from this present suffering and may all people of good will unite to stitch together a future of lasting justice and peace.
Fr. Daniel Griffith
Pastor and Rector, The Basilica of Saint Mary