SENECA, Kan. ( WIBW /Gray News) - A Catholic priest in Kansas was shot and killed on Thursday.

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann shared heartfelt condolences in a social media post confirming the fatal shooting of Father Arul Carasala, a priest at Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church .

The Catholic Archdiocese in Kansas City urged the community to pray for the rural Kansas parish, as well as the perpetrator.

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

Naumann shared that Carasala was a devoted and zealous pastor who faithfully served the Archdiocese for over 20 years.

He also assured the community that there was no ongoing threat.

The Kansas Bureau of Investigation later announced that Gary L. Hermesch, 66, of Tulsa, Oklahoma, was arrested and booked on a first-degree murder charge in connection with the death of Carasala.

The Knights of Columbus led a prayer service for Carasala Thursday evening, followed by a mass scheduled in his honor.

“Eternal rest grant unto him, 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,” Naumann wrote.

Officials said the shooting remains under investigation.