A priest who was preparing for Communion was tragically killed when a large crucifix fell during a livestreamed Mass in Ecuador, changing a solemn worship moment into chaos as people rushed to help him.
Father Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari was at the altar of Nuestra Señora del Perpetuo Socorro Church in Guayaquil on Saturday when the heavy wooden crucifix behind him suddenly toppled forward, striking him. The distressing event was captured on video, which shows congregants screaming and rushing to assist him.
The Archdiocese of Guayaquil confirmed his death through a Facebook post, referring to him as the parish priest at Perpetuo Socorro Church. In their message, they expressed, “Our dear Fr. Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari … has departed to the Father’s House to enjoy His presence and His glory.” The statement concluded with a plea for eternal rest on his behalf.
This unfortunate incident occurred just a day after the archdiocese had celebrated the anniversary of Sánchez Molinari’s ordination, as reported by Ecuadorian news outlet Primicias.
The service was being livestreamed when the crucifix fell, documenting both the horrible mishap and the frantic response of those in attendance. In the video, a woman can be heard shouting, “Father, Father … call an ambulance.”
Sánchez Molinari was a member of the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer, more commonly known as the Redemptorists. Before his time in Guayaquil, he had served for several years at San Lorenzo in Vinces, a town in Ecuador’s Los Ríos province. His former parish expressed their sorrow over his death in a tribute on social media, remembering his dedication and compassion for the community.
The reason for the crucifix’s fall has yet to be determined, and church officials have not provided any explanations regarding what might have caused it.
