GUAYAQUIL, Ecuador—A tragedy during a livestreamed mass has shocked the Catholic community after a heavy crucifix fell from the wall and fatally struck Father Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari while he was officiating a religious ceremony.
The accident occurred on Saturday, October 17, at Our Lady
of Perpetual Help Church in Guayaquil. The service was being streamed online
when the cross suddenly fell on the priest, who was standing in front of the
altar and apparently did not notice what was happening behind him.
Images of the incident show the reaction of the
parishioners, who began screaming and calling for help upon realizing what had
happened.
One of the aspects that has drawn the most attention is the
content of the reflection the priest shared shortly before the accident. During
his homily, he spoke about the unpredictability of death and the importance of
dedicating time to God and loved ones, instead of wasting life on everyday
distractions.
The coincidence between his words and what happened minutes
later has generated numerous reactions among those who learned of the case
through the broadcast.
The church has confirmed the priest's death.