Redemptorist priest Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari dies after being struck by falling crucifix during Mass

Redemptorist priest Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari died on Oct. 17 after a large crucifix fell and struck him during Mass at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church in Guayaquil, Ecuador. The 53-year-old priest was standing behind the altar when the heavy object came loose and hit him on the head, causing him to collapse.

The Archdiocese of Guayaquil confirmed the death following the incident, which was captured on a livestream of the service. While the video spread widely on social media, the parish removed the footage out of respect for the deceased. The cause of the crucifix falling remains unknown, though the event has been described as a tragic accident.

In response to social media comments suggesting the death was a divine punishment, Father Juan Carlos Vásconez, rector of St. Josemaría Escrivá Church, stated that such tragedies should be viewed as a reminder of the fragility of life rather than a judgment on the individual. Father Ricardo Rivera Gutiérrez also addressed online mockery of the event, calling for respect for the grieving community and the dignity of the deceased.

Father Sánchez, who had been ordained for 21 years, previously served as pastor at San Lorenzo de Vinces Parish. A Mass to remember his life was held at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church on Oct. 18.