Tragedy As Giant Crucifix Falls On Priest During Mass In Ecuador

A Catholic priest in Ecuador has died after a big crucifix fell on him whereas he was celebrating Mass at a church in Guayaquil, with the service being livestreamed on social media.

The incident occurred on Saturday when Father Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari was addressing worshippers at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church in central Guayaquil.

A video of the incident, which has circulated broadly on social media, confirmed the massive crucifix immediately toppling over and putting the priest on the pinnacle.

According to Newsweek, the Archdiocese of Guayaquil confirmed his demise in a press release revealed on social media on Sunday.

The archdiocese stated Sánchez Molinari, who served as parish priest of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, had died, describing him as a beloved priest who had gone to the “Father’s House”.

It additionally provided prayers for his everlasting relaxation.

The circumstances surrounding the incident stay unclear, as no official clarification has been offered on what prompted the crucifix to fall or whether or not structural injury or defective fittings contributed to the tragedy.

Sánchez Molinari was a member of the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer, generally referred to as the Redemptorists, a Catholic spiritual congregation based in 1732 in Italy by Saint Alphonsus Liguori.

The congregation is understood for its missionary work, notably amongst poor, marginalised and underserved communities.

According to Newsweek, the priest had beforehand served in Vinces, in Ecuador’s Los Ríos Province, earlier than being assigned to the parish in central Guayaquil.

He additionally usually livestreamed Masses by his social media accounts and YouTube channel.

The incident has drawn widespread consideration after footage of the tragedy circulated on-line, capturing the second the crucifix fell on the priest through the spiritual service.