A Catholic priest has sadly died after being crushed by a giant altar cross. The shocking incident occurred during a live Catholic Mass, which was being broadcast in Latin America. The priest has been named Patricio Sanchez. He was leading the service when the giant wooden crucifix hanging on the wall behind him appeared to detach and fall.
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Footage of the incident has since surfaced on social media. In the footage, the crucifix can be seen leaning forward, inch by inch, before ultimately falling and striking Patricio on the back of his head. The force of the blow caused Patricio to smash into the altar table in front of him.
Those within the church quickly rushed to help the injured priest. He was pinned under the massive structure. Sadly, he died instantly due to the impact of the falling object. The shocking incident occurred on Saturday, October 17, at a church in Guayaquil, Ecuador.
The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Guayaquil has since confirmed Patricio's death and issued a statement on the incident.
"We inform you that our beloved Father Patricio Alfredo Sanchez Molinari, who served as parish priest of the Perpetual Help church in the Central Vicariate, has departed for the Father's House to enjoy his presence and glory," the statement said, via The Sun. "The Archdiocese of Guayaquil joins in prayer for the eternal rest of his soul and expresses its solidarity, affection and love to the Redemptorist family, his relatives and friends."
