Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann of the Archdiocese of Kansas City announced one of his priests was fatally shot on Thurs., April 3, 2025.

Fr. Arul Carasala of Saints Peter and Paul Parish in Seneca, Kansas fell victim to what the Archbishop described as a “senseless act of violence.”

66-year-old Gary Hermesch was arrested and booked at the Nemaha County Jail for “Murder in the 1st degree. Intentional and premeditated.”

Kris Anderson, the parish’s director of religious education told the Associated Press, “From what we know, an older man walked up to him and shot him three times.”  

The motive remains unclear.

[PRAY FOR FATHER CARASALA on BIG PULPIT’S LIVE EUCHARISTIC ADORATION]

Here’s the Kansas City Archbishop’s full message on Facebook:

“I am heartbroken to share the tragic news of the death of Fr. Arul Carasala, who was fatally shot earlier today. This senseless act of violence has left us grieving the loss of a beloved priest, leader, and friend.

“Fr. Carasala was a devoted and zealous pastor who faithfully served our Archdiocese for over twenty years, including as dean of the Nemaha-Marshall region. His love for Christ and His Church was evident in how he ministered to his people with great generosity and care. His parishioners, friends, and brother priests will deeply miss him.

“In this time of sorrow, let us entrust Fr. Carasala to the mercy of God and lift up in prayer his family in Cuddapah, India, his parish community at Saints Peter and Paul in Seneca, and all who mourn his passing. Let us also pray for the perpetrator, that God may touch and transform his heart.

“There is no ongoing threat to the community, but I recognize the pain and shock that such an event brings. In moments like these, we turn to our Lord, who is close to the brokenhearted. As we grieve, may we find strength in our faith and in the hope of Christ’s Resurrection.

“The Knights of Columbus will lead a Rosary tonight at 6 PM at Sts. Peter and Paul Parish in Seneca. I will celebrate a Mass there at 7:30 PM. I invite all who are able to join us in prayer.”

Eternal Rest Prayer for Father Arul Carasala

Eternal rest grant unto Father Arul Carasala, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul, and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.