Church shares harrowing statement after priest is crushed to death by giant crucifix in front of worshippers
Father Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari was killed after a large crucifix suddenly fell and struck him in the back of his head during a service in the Church of Perpetual Relief in Guayaquil, Ecuador. Now, the church has broken its silence with a heartbreaking statement.
It was during the Saturday evening service on October 17 when the horrifying fatal incident occurred. Father Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari, 53, was speaking to his congregation from the altar when a large crucifix suddenly fell from the wall, striking the back of his head.
Footage from the livestream, which has since been taken down, captured the heartbreaking moments as worshippers cried and screamed inside the Church of Perpetual Relief in Guayaquil, Ecuador.
The priest was knocked down behind the altar and disappeared from view. Horrified churchgoers could be heard shouting and rushing to help him.
“Father, Father! Call an ambulance!” people screamed as they ran towards the altar to help the stricken priest. Moments later, the livestream suddenly cut out.
Emergency services were called to the scene, but despite their efforts, first responders were unable to revive him. It remains unclear whether the priest died instantly or later.
Per the New York Post, Father Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari was speaking about death just moments before the fatal accident, saying, “One day, all of us here will also die, and sometimes the time we’ve spent on things doesn’t have as much meaning as the time we spend with God.”
Church breaks silence after priest dies from falling crucifix
“The quality time we give to God, to our brothers and sisters, to our husbands, wives, children, and family – that time is the best spent,” he continued.
Now, the church has broken its silence. As quoted by Ladbible, they shared a message on Instagram, explaining why they shared pictures from the church that didn’t include the crucifix.
“We share the images of the Eucharist in memory of our beloved P. Patrick Alfredo Sanchez Molinari, CSsR., whom the Lord called to his bosom last night, October 17, while celebrating the Holy Mass,” it read.
“Cardinal Luis Cabrera, OFM. Archbishop of Guayaquil, celebrated the Eucharist, accompanied by the auxiliary bishops, priests, members of the Community of the Holy Redeemer and parishioners.”
The message concluded, “We appreciate all the messages of condolence from different parts of the world and especially, your prayers for the eternal repose of the soul of P. Patrick Sanchez.”
Mourned by churchgoers
People quickly took to Instagram’s comments to share their condolences.
“Today the Church mourns, but also gives thanks to God. Our brother priest has departed to the Father’s House. A priest never dies alone, he dies having lived for others. With his hands he blessed, with his voice he forgave, with his life he taught us the Gospel not only with words, but with the example of his daily dedication,” one wrote.
A second added, “May God receive him in His Holy Glory, one of the best Priests that our Perpetual Help parish has ever had. His passing is very sad, only God knows why it happened this way, we will miss you a lot Father Patricio.”
Rest in peace, Father. Our thoughts and prayers are with those affected by this tragedy.
