Ecuadorian Priest Fatally Crushed by Falling Crucifix During Live-Streamed Mass
The accident occurred at the Nuestra Senora del Perpetuo Socorro Church in Guayaquil when a large crucifix detached from the wall behind the priest.
A Catholic priest in Ecuador was killed when a large crucifix fell on him during a live-streamed Mass on Saturday. The incident took place at the Nuestra Senora del Perpetuo Socorro Church in Guayaquil, the country's largest city.
Father Patricio Alfredo Sanchez Molinari was leading the service and livestreaming it from his personal social media account when the crucifix detached from the wall behind him. Approximately 27 minutes into the broadcast, the cross tilted forward and fell directly onto the priest. The livestream captured the sounds of parishioners crying out in distress and calling for an ambulance.
Sanchez Molinari was an ordained priest in the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer, also known as the Redemptorists. The Archdiocese of Guayaquil confirmed his death on Sunday in a statement posted on social media. The archdiocese offered prayers for his soul, stating, "Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. Amen."
The statement did not specify the cause of the crucifix's fall or indicate whether an investigation would be conducted. It also did not clarify whether the priest died instantly or succumbed to his injuries later.
Followers on social media shared tributes to Sanchez Molinari, describing him as a "great priest," "a true missionary of Christ," and an "exceptional person" who offered guidance and valuable lessons. The Redemptorists, founded in 1732, typically serve poor and isolated communities.