It’s been almost a month since the tragic incident in which Father Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari was struck by a falling crucifix at the Church of Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Guayaquil, Ecuador. The priest died, and his family wants a full investigation. Now, new sad details about the day before he died have come to light.
Father Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari was doing what he had devoted his life to when tragedy struck.
The priest was celebrating Mass on October 17 at the Church of Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Guayaquil, Ecuador, when a massive crucifix suddenly detached from the wall behind him and fell on him, killing him. The service was being livestreamed, capturing the horrifying moment.
Born on November 6, 1973, Patricio was a member of the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer, also known as the Redemptorists. He was ordained in October 2005 and died at 52.
Throughout his religious career, he served communities in several parts of Ecuador, including Loja and Guayaquil. Before becoming parish priest at Our Lady of Perpetual Help, he had served at San Lorenzo de Vinces in Los Ríos province.
One of the most heartbreaking details is what Father Patricio spoke about shortly before the accident. During the service, he reflected on death and the importance of spending time with God and loved ones.
Father Sánchez Molinari died by falling cross during Mass
“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,” he told the congregation.
“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 added.
Moments later, the massive crucifix behind him came loose and struck him. People rushed to help, but he could not be saved. Police initially classified the death as an accident, but questions soon emerged about how such a large cross could have fallen.
His relatives called for a proper investigation into whether the crucifix had been safely secured and maintained. One relative, Patricio León, told El Comercio that an investigation should be carried out.
Celebrated anniversary day before he died
But there is another heartbreaking detail about his final days. According to El Comercio, just one day earlier, on October 16, the Archdiocese of Guayaquil marked another anniversary of his priesthood. He had dedicated more than two decades of his life to serving God and his community.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the priest’s family and loved ones. May he rest in peace.
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