A Catholic priest in Ecuador has died after a large wooden crucifix fell on him during a livestreamed Mass, with the incident captured on camera at a church in the coastal city of Guayaquil.
Father Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari was celebrating Mass at Nuestra Señora del Perpetuo Socorro (Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church) on October 17, 2026, when the crucifix detached from the wall above the altar and struck him.
Footage from the livestream captured the moment the heavy wooden cross fell towards the priest, prompting worshippers to rush forward to assist him.
According to Ecuadorian broadcaster Teleamazonas, parishioners called for an ambulance before the livestream ended.
The Archdiocese of Guayaquil subsequently confirmed the priest’s death, expressing sorrow over the loss of a member of its clergy.
However, the archdiocese did not disclose the precise circumstances surrounding his death, including whether he died at the scene or after receiving medical attention.
The cause of the crucifix falling also remains unclear, with no official findings released regarding its mounting or condition.
Archdiocese Mourns the Priest
In a statement signed by Cardinal Luis Cabrera Herrera, the Archdiocese of Guayaquil mourned Sánchez Molinari, who served as parish priest within its Central Vicariate.
The statement offered prayers for the deceased priest’s eternal rest and extended condolences to those affected by his death.
The Redemptorist congregation, to which Sánchez Molinari belonged, also joined other Catholic communities in mourning his passing.
A memorial Mass was announced for October 18 at the same church where the fatal incident occurred.
Who Was Father Patricio Sánchez Molinari?
Originally from Cuenca, a city in southern Ecuador, Sánchez Molinari was a member of the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer, commonly known as the Redemptorists.
He previously served for several years at San Lorenzo Parish in Vinces, Los Ríos province, before being assigned to Guayaquil.
His death came shortly after the archdiocese marked the anniversary of his ordination to the priesthood.
According to Ecuadorian newspaper El Universo, the priest had been delivering a message encouraging worshippers to prioritise their relationship with God and their loved ones rather than allow work, money and everyday worries to dominate their lives.
The message has taken on a poignant significance following his sudden death during the service.
Investigation Into the Incident
The incident has drawn attention to the unexpected dangers that can arise during religious gatherings, particularly when heavy objects are mounted above areas occupied by clergy and worshippers.
However, authorities and church officials have not publicly established what caused the crucifix to detach from the wall.
Further information regarding the circumstances of the incident and the priest’s final moments had not been provided in the available account.
As the Catholic community mourns Sánchez Molinari, prayers and tributes continue for the priest, whose death occurred while he was carrying out his religious duties.
His death has left worshippers grieving a priest who was leading his congregation in prayer when the tragedy unfolded.
