Cross falls during livestreamed Mass in Ecuador, killing priest Patricio Sánchez Molinari

A large cross detached from the wall and fell on the head of a priest during a livestreamed Mass at the Perpetuo Socorro Church in Guayaquil, Ecuador. The parish priest, Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari, 53, died. The Archdiocese of Guayaquil confirmed his death.

Play video: Cross falls during livestreamed Mass in Ecuador, killing priest Patricio Sánchez Molinari

It happened during the homily

Footage from the livestream shows Molinari delivering a sermon on the nature of life, urging those present to consider the quality of time spent with God and family. He was leading the service from the altar, facing the congregation, when the large cross came off the wall behind him and struck him. Parishioners screamed. The priest was taken to hospital but could not be saved.

Dear brothers and sisters, one day all of us who are here will also die.

Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari

Condolences from the church and archdiocese

Molinari belonged to the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer, a Roman Catholic order founded in 1732 and approved by Pope Benedict XIV in 1749. The Perpetuo Socorro Church said his dedication, priestly vocation and love for others will remain forever in their hearts and will be an example of faith and hope for all who knew him. The archdiocese thanked those who sent condolences from different parts of the world.