By GB News (World News) | Created at 2026-10-19 01:00:30 | Updated at 2026-10-19 02:37:25
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GB NEWS
A priest died after a large crucifix fell on top of him while he was leading a livestreamed Mass in Ecuador.
Father Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari was addressing his congregation in Guayaquil when the crucifix toppled over on top of him and struck him in the head.
The cause of the crucifix's collapse remains unknown.
No official explanation has been issued about whether structural damage or faulty fittings contributed to the incident.
A spokesman for the Archdiocese of Guayaquil confirmed on Sunday that Father Sánchez Molinari had died.
They said: "We announce that our beloved Fr. Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari, CSsR., who served as parish priest of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church in the Central Vicariate, has departed for the Father's House to rejoice in His presence and glory."
"Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord. And let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. Amen."
In the footage seen by GB News, a large crucifix hung on a wall behind the priest before it fell forward onto the back of Father Molinari's head.
Father Molinari was behind the altar, facing the congregation, and did not see the crucifix falling behind him.
Parishioners are heard crying and screaming on video, with some rushing to tend to him.
A Eucharist in his memory is scheduled for Sunday evening.
While details about Father Sánchez Molinari are sparse, local media reports he served as parish priest of Nuestra Señora del Perpetuo Socorro (Our Lady of Perpetual Help) Church and was part of the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer, founded in 1732 by the Italian St. Alphonsus Liguori.
The church and its congregation focused on helping poor, isolated communities in Guayaquil.
According to local media, Father Sánchez Molinari was assigned to downtown Guayaquil and had previously worked in Vinces, Los Ríos Province.
He often livestreamed his masses from his social media profiles and YouTube channel.
On Friday, October 16, the day before his death, the Archdiocese of Guayaquil issued a congratulatory message to Father Sánchez Molinari
During his last religious service, the priest spoke to the congregation about the importance of dedicating time to God and loved ones, rather than focusing on work and financial worries.
This message was captured in the live stream of Saturday's Mass.
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