A Catholic priest, Father Patricio Sánchez Molinari, has died after a large wooden crucifix fell on him while he celebrated Mass at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church in Guayaquil, Ecuador.
The incident occurred on Saturday during a service being livestreamed on social media, according to reports by the Associated Press and Ecuadorian newspaper El Universo.
Sánchez Molinari was at the altar when the crucifix mounted behind him became detached and struck his head.
Worshippers Rush to Help
The Associated Press reported that footage showed the crucifix falling as the priest celebrated Mass. He did not appear to notice it before it struck him.
Worshippers rushed to assist him and called for emergency help while the broadcast continued.
El Universo similarly reported that members of the congregation tried to help the priest and urgently requested an ambulance.
Archdiocese Confirms Priest’s Death
The Archdiocese of Guayaquil confirmed Sánchez Molinari’s death and identified him as a member of the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer, commonly known as the Redemptorists.
According to El Universo, the archdiocese expressed condolences to the religious community, his relatives and friends.
The priest had previously served for several years at San Lorenzo de Vinces parish, which also mourned his passing, the newspaper reported.
Cause of Cross’s Fall Not Established
The reports did not establish what caused the crucifix to detach from its mounting above the altar.
The Associated Press said local authorities had not commented at the time of its report.
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