# Priest's Death Not Divine Punishment

> Catholic priest says falling crucifix killing fellow clergyman was not divine punishment.
- Title: Priest's Death Not Divine Punishment · Newsweek | Shortify
- Summary: Catholic priest says falling crucifix killing fellow clergyman was not divine punishment. Father Patricio Sánchez Molinari's death during Mass was not divine…
- Keywords: father patricio alfredo sánchez molinari, father juan carlos vásconez, san josemaría escrivá church, guayaquil, ecuador, crucifix, mass, divine punishment, tower of siloam, gospel of luke, Priest's, Death
- Source: Newsweek — https://newsweek.com/falling-crucifix-killing-priest-was-not-punishment-from-god-rector-12601244
- Published: 2026-10-21T17:17:47+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: father patricio alfredo sánchez molinari, father juan carlos vásconez, san josemaría escrivá church, guayaquil, ecuador, crucifix, mass, divine punishment, tower of siloam, gospel of luke
## Priest's death during Mass
Father Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari died after a crucifix fell on him during Mass in Guayaquil, Ecuador.
## Online speculation
Some online users questioned whether the death was divine punishment after the viral video went viral with over 12 million views.
## Rector's response
Father Juan Carlos Vásconez, rector of San Josemaría Escrivá church, said the death was not divine punishment.
## Biblical reference
Father Vásconez cited the Tower of Siloam story from the Gospel of Luke where Jesus said those who died were not more guilty than others.
## Online comments
Some online comments questioned the precision of the crucifix falling on the priest's head during Mass.
## American commentator
American MAGA supporter Juliana claimed the crucifix falling was divine judgment from God on humanity.
## Archdiocese statement
The Archdiocese of Guayaquil confirmed Father Sánchez Molinari's death and called him to 'eternal rest'.
## Family demand
Father Sánchez Molinari's family demanded an investigation into the crucifix falling during Mass.
## Rector's call for safety
Father Vásconez urged churches to inspect crosses and statues to ensure they are securely attached.
## Key takeaway

Father Patricio Sánchez Molinari's death during Mass was not divine punishment, rector says.