Crucifix Falls on Ecuador Priest During Livestreamed Mass

A fatal accident during a church service in Guayaquil, Ecuador, claimed the life of the Rev. Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari on Saturday when a large wooden crucifix detached from a wall and struck him. The pastor of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church was addressing his congregation during a livestreamed Mass when the cross fell behind him.

Video streamed to the priest's Facebook page and verified by The New York Times captured the incident inside the church's flower-filled sanctuary. Sánchez Molinari was standing in front of a large crucifix mounted on a mural-covered wall when the accident occurred.

Shortly before the cross fell, the priest put on his reading glasses and began speaking to the congregation. He did not appear to notice the crucifix falling behind him and collapsed after it struck him.

Moments earlier, Sánchez Molinari had delivered a sermon reflecting on mortality and how people spend their time. He urged listeners to devote more attention to God and their closest relationships rather than spending hours scrolling on their phones or watching television.

During the sermon, Sánchez Molinari said, "All of us are going to die. Sometimes the time we have spent on things has far less meaning than the time we spend with God, the quality time we give to God, to our brothers and sisters, to our husbands, wives, children and families. That is the time best spent."

After the crucifix struck the priest, shocked parishioners could be heard shouting in the church's main seating area. Several people rushed toward the altar to assist him before the livestream ended.

The cause of the accident remained unclear. Local authorities did not immediately respond to requests for comment about the circumstances surrounding the crucifix's fall.

The Archdiocese of Guayaquil confirmed Sánchez Molinari's death in a statement published on social media on Sunday. The statement said he had "departed for the Father's House to rejoice in His presence and glory."

Mourners gathered at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church on Sunday evening for a service honoring the priest. The gathering followed the archdiocese's public confirmation of his death.