Priest killed when giant altar cross falls during livestreamed Mass

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 18 Oct, 18:01 · Archive

Father Patricio Alfredo Sánchez was crushed by a large crucifix that fell from the wall during a Catholic Mass in Guayaquil, Ecuador.

Father Patricio Alfredo Sánchez, a parish priest at Perpetuo Socorro Church in Guayaquil, Ecuador, was killed when a large wooden crucifix mounted on the wall above the altar fell on him during a livestreamed Mass on Saturday. The incident occurred about half an hour into the service. Worshippers present in the church and watching the Facebook livestream heard members of the congregation screaming for help as the broadcast continued.

Minutes before the cross fell, Father Sánchez had delivered a homily about death to those gathered. 'Dear brothers, one day, all of us who are here are going to die,' he told the congregation, adding that time spent with God, family and others held the most meaning. Emergency services attended the church, and Father Sánchez was declared dead later that day.

The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Guayaquil confirmed his death in a statement, saying he 'has departed to the Father's House to enjoy His presence and His glory'. It is unclear what caused the crucifix to fall from the wall, and church officials have not publicly provided an explanation for the incident. A wedding had been planned to take place at the church following the Mass.

How it is being reported

• Horrific moment priest killed by falling crucifix during livestreamed MassWorshippers were heard screaming for help as the live broadcast continued on social media.New York Post · 18 Oct, 17:43
• Priest crushed to death by giant cross during livestreamed Mass'Dear brothers, one day, all of us who are here are going to die..'Metro · 18 Oct, 15:56

In this story: Father Patricio Alfredo Sánchez · Perpetuo Socorro Church · Guayaquil · Ecuador · Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Guayaquil

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