Haunting final words of priest who died after crucifix fell from church wall

A Catholic congregation in Ecuador witnessed a devastating tragedy when a large crucifix suddenly fell during Mass and struck the priest leading the service.

Father Patricio Alfredo Sánchez was celebrating an evening Mass at Perpetuo Socorro Church in Guayaquil on October 17 when the accident occurred.

The service was being livestreamed, meaning the horrifying moment was captured on camera.

Sánchez had been standing before the congregation and delivering his message when the heavy crucifix mounted above him suddenly broke loose from the wall.

It came crashing down and struck the priest.

Worshippers immediately rushed forward to help him while emergency services were called.

Despite efforts to save him, Father Sánchez died from his injuries.

The Archdiocese of Guayaquil later confirmed his death, identifying Sánchez as the parish priest of Perpetuo Socorro Church and a member of the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer.

But beyond the shocking circumstances of the accident, something else about the service has stayed with many of those who heard it.

Only moments before the crucifix fell, Sánchez had been speaking about mortality.

His message centered on how quickly life passes and how important it is to value the time people are given.

During his reflection, he told the congregation: