Priest’s death raises concerns about church maintenance in Ecuador

Father Patricio Sánchez Molinari died after a crucifix fell on his head during Mass on Oct. 17 at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church in Guayaquil, Ecuador. The 53-year-old priest was celebrating evening Mass when the wall-mounted crucifix came loose and struck him. Although churchgoers transported him to a hospital, he died from his injuries.

Ecuadorian police classified the death as an accident. The family of the priest is awaiting the results of a police investigation to determine the exact circumstances of the incident. The Archdiocese of Guayaquil stated it is waiting for expert examinations to establish the cause of the accident.

Cardinal Luis Gerardo Cabrera, archbishop of Guayaquil, said that structural and architectural issues in local churches often remain unaddressed for years because of limited resources. He noted that while technical studies can assist in decision-making, administrative procedures and frequent personnel turnover complicate the implementation of repairs. The archdiocese employs a technical specialist to oversee construction projects.