Tragedy in the Catholic Church as a priest has died after a heavy wooden cross fell on him while he was celebrating Mass.
The priest has been identified as Rev. Fr. Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari, the parish priest of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, also called Perpetuo Socorro Church, in Guayaquil, Ecuador.
The sad incident happened on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at the church in Guayaquil. Father Patricio was celebrating daily Mass which was being shown live online.
About 27 minutes into the Mass, while he was addressing the congregation, a massive wooden crucifix on the wall behind the altar suddenly detached and fell directly on him. The moment was captured on the live broadcast camera and the video is now trending on social media.
People inside the church and those watching online were left in shock.
On Sunday, October 18, the Archdiocese of Guayaquil confirmed his death in an official statement.
The Archdiocese said: “We inform you that our dear Father Patricio Alfredo Sanchez Molinari, who served as rector of Perpetuo Socorro Church, has departed to His Father’s house to abide in His presence and glory”.
The Catholic community in Ecuador and around the world is now in mourning.
At this time, authorities have not yet said what caused the cross to fall, or if there was any problem with how it was fixed to the wall.
May his soul rest in peace. 🕊️
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