ECUADORIAN CATHOLIC PRIEST DIES AFTER CRUCIFIX FALLS ON HIM DURING HOLY MASS

October 18, 2026

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By: Muftau Fatimo

A Catholic priest, Rev. Fr. Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari, has died after a crucifix reportedly fell on him while he was celebrating Holy Mass in Guayaquil, Ecuador.

The tragic incident occurred during a church service at the Catholic Archdiocese of Guayaquil, while the priest was being live-streamed.

Footage of the incident showed the cleric addressing his congregation when the crucifix suddenly fell on him.

The Archdiocese of Guayaquil confirmed the priest’s death in a statement issued on Sunday, announcing that he had passed away after serving as parish priest of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church in the Central Vicariate.

In its condolence message, the archdiocese described the late cleric as a beloved priest and expressed hope that he would find eternal rest in God’s presence.

The statement read, “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.”

The archdiocese concluded its message with a prayer for the deceased, saying, “Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord. And let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. Amen.”