‘We are all going to die’: Ecuador priest Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari’s last words during Mass before a falling crucifix struck him and caused his death

Father Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari spoke about death, faith and family during a church service in Guayaquil, Ecuador. Minutes later, a large wooden crucifix fell on him. The priest died in the October 17 accident, which was captured on a livestream.

What did the priest say before the accident?

“Todos vamos a morir,” Father Sánchez said in Spanish during his sermon. In English, the words mean, “We're all going to die.”

The priest was talking about how people spend their time. He said that time spent on things that matter less may not be as meaningful as time spent with God and loved ones, according to MDZ.


Also Read: What caused Ecuador priest Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari’s death? Here’s what we know

His words caught attention online after the accident. However, the statement was part of his religious message about life, faith and priorities.

He said, “I believe in God. Let us pray to our Lord God, from whom all authority comes, let us say, listen to our Lord's prayer. Listen to our Lord's prayer.”

How did the crucifix fall on the priest?

The accident happened on Saturday, October 17, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, also known as Perpetuo Socorro, in Guayaquil. Father Sánchez was leading Mass when the large wooden crucifix mounted behind the altar came loose and fell on him. The incident was captured during a livestream of the service. The footage shows the crucifix striking the priest. People inside the church can be heard shouting for help as the service comes to a sudden stop, according to AP.

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The Archdiocese on social media shared a statement that reads as, “We announce that our beloved Fr. Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari, CSsR., who served as parish priest of the Perpetual Help church in the Central Vicariate, has departed to the Father's House to enjoy His presence and His glory.”