A religious service turned tragic in Ecuador. A priest, Father Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari, died crushed by the heavy cross that was hanging behind him and which suddenly came loose while the prelate was celebrating mass in Guayaquil. The frightening accident occurred on Saturday, before the eyes of dozens of faithful. The church was packed, but many witnessed the scene even though they were not physically present, because the function was broadcast live on social media.
Priest dies crushed by cross in church
The incident took place in the premises of the parish of “Our Lady of Perpetual Help”, in the center of the capital city of Guayaquil, on the coast of Ecuador. The heavy wooden cross with the statue of the crucified Jesus on it, which was behind the priest at the altar, suddenly fell off, hitting him squarely on the head.
It all happened in a few moments and the priest had no escape. It was impossible for those present to avoid the accident. The faithful and collaborators intervened immediately, but the rescue efforts were useless. The causes of the detachment of the cross are not known.
“The Archdiocese of Guayaquil unites in prayer for the eternal rest of his soul and expresses its solidarity, affection and closeness to the Redemptorist family, his family and friends. Rest in peace”, wrote Archbishop Luis Cabrera Herrera.