Catholic Priest Dies After Crucifix Fell on Him During Livestream Mass in Ecuador

By Micheal Chukwuebuka

A Catholic priest, Father Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari, has died after a large crucifix fell on him while he was celebrating Mass in Ecuador, with the incident captured during a livestream of the religious service.

The priest, who served as the parish priest of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, also known as Perpetuo Socorro, in Guayaquil, was addressing worshippers on Saturday when the crucifix suddenly came crashing down on him.

Footage of the incident, which has circulated widely on social media, shows Father Molinari conducting the service before the cross falls on top of him, interrupting the Mass.

The Archdiocese of Guayaquil confirmed the priest’s death in a statement released on Sunday, expressing sorrow over the loss of the clergyman who served in the Central Vicariate.

In its tribute, the archdiocese announced that Father Molinari had departed “for the Father’s House to rejoice in His presence and glory.”

The statement also included a prayer for the deceased priest, asking God to grant him eternal rest and for perpetual light to shine upon him.

“May he rest in peace. Amen,” the archdiocese added.