Priest dies after massive crucifix falls during livestreamed mass
The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Guayaquil has confirmed the tragic passing of Father Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari, who died following an accident during a weekend church service in Ecuador. The incident occurred on Saturday, October 17, at the Nuestra Señora del Perpetuo Socorro Church in Guayaquil. Father Sánchez Molinari, a member of the Redemptorist religious order, was presiding over the altar when a heavy wooden crucifix mounted on the wall behind him detached and fell forward, striking him on the head. The tragedy occurred roughly 27 minutes into the service, which was being broadcast online. Worshippers present inside the building, along with thousands viewing the digital livestream, witnessed the accident unfold. Parishioners immediately rushed to the altar to offer assistance and contact emergency services. Emergency medical personnel arrived at the scene shortly after, but due to the severity of the impact, the priest succumbed to his injuries. In an offic...