A Catholic community in Ecuador is mourning the death of a priest who was killed when a large crucifix fell on him during a livestreamed Mass. 

Fr Patricio Alfredo Sánchez Molinari died on Saturday at the Church of Perpetual Relief in Guayaquil, where he served as parish priest. 

The heavy crucifix suddenly detached from the wall behind the altar, striking the priest on the back of his head. 

Distressing footage, which subsequently circulated on social media, showed shocked worshippers screaming and rushing to help him. 

Some could be heard shouting for an ambulance before the livestream ended. 

Emergency services were called, but paramedics were unable to revive Fr Sánchez. 

The Archdiocese of Guayaquil confirmed his death, saying the priest had gone to the "House of the Father to enjoy his presence and glory". 

Fr Sánchez was a member of the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer, also known as the Redemptorists. 

The Catholic religious order was founded in 1732 and carries out missionary and pastoral work around the world. 

The archdiocese announced a memorial Eucharist for Sunday evening, giving fellow clergy and parishioners an opportunity to remember the priest and mourn his sudden death. 

The footage of the incident has since been removed from the original livestream, according to NBC News. 

The circumstances surrounding the crucifix becoming detached remain unclear, and local authorities have yet to explain what caused the accident.