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

Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari, a parish priest at the Perpetuo Socorro Church in Guayaquil, Ecuador, died after a large cross fell on him during Mass, on Saturday, October 17, in front of churchgoers and people watching the service online. The church later confirmed his death in a statement.

What happened to the priest during Mass?

According to Marca, the incident took place during a Mass at the Perpetuo Socorro Church in Guayaquil, Ecuador. A large cross along with a figure of Jesus Christ fell on Sánchez Molinari and struck his head.

Churchgoers witnessed the incident. People were also watching the service through an online livestream. A video circulating on social media captured the shock inside the church. One woman could be heard shouting, “Father, Father... call an ambulance!” as people reacted to the incident. According to Marca, emergency medical workers were unable to save the priest.


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Trigger warning: The video shows disturbing footage of the incident. Viewer discretion is advised.

Who was Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari?

Sánchez Molinari served as the parish priest of the Perpetuo Socorro Church in Guayaquil. He was also a member of the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer, a Catholic religious order commonly known as the Redemptorists.

The church confirmed his death in a statement. It said he had served as parish priest in the Central Vicariate.

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“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,” the statement said.

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Arquidiocesisgye also shared another post on social media stating, “The Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer and the Archdiocese of Guayaquil invite all parishioners to participate in the Eucharist in memory of Fr. Patrick Alfredo Sanchez Molinari, CSsR. , who acted as a priest of the Perpetuo Help Church.”

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The church also announced a memorial Mass for Father Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari on Sunday, October 18, at 9 p.m. at Perpetuo Socorro Church, located at José Mascote and Maldonado in Guayaquil, Ecuador.