RCC priest burns to death during Easter service in Spain

RCC priest Javier Sánchez. Photo: Mirror

On April 9, at a convent in the city of Zaragoza, Spain, Catholic priest Javier Sánchez's vestments caught fire during an Easter candle-lighting vigil, resulting in fatal burns. He spent four days in intensive care before tragically passing away from multiple organ failure, according to the Mirror.

Investigation revealed that a spark from the ember bowl fell onto his vestments, and the blaze spread rapidly. The priest suffered 50% burns all over his body. Investigators believe that paraffin had been used to help the ember bowl burn.

Javier Sánchez has been hailed a hero for apparently protecting a group of nuns and managing to shield them from the flames, when embers lit up in the basin.

As reported by the UOJ, during Easter Mass presided over by Pope Francis, a large icon of Christ fell from the altar, located in the square in front of St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican.

Read also

Orthodox Bioethics Conference Makes Key Statements on Euthanasia

The 3rd International Bioethics Conference of the Ecumenical Patriarchate recently concluded in Crete.

ROCOR Parish in Wales Fundraising to Secure a Church

The parish is hoping to establish a permanent Orthodox church in Cardiff — a home of prayer, worship, and renewal for Wales, where the ancient faith once flourished.

UOC Priest: St. Gabriel of Georgia Healed Ukrainian Soldier

A serviceman - who had been unable to speak for nearly a year due to a concussion - began to speak again after an appearance of the Georgian saint.

2025 St. Herman Youth Conference to Be Held in NY This December

Annual gathering to bring together Orthodox youth from across North America for fellowship, worship, and spiritual growth.

HCHC Community Holds All-Night Vigil Honoring Philoptochos Society and Its Patron Saints

Special prayers offered for members of the National Board and all Philoptochos chapters in gratitude for their decades of support.

Georgian Church Resumes Construction After Miracle

The foundation of a church was blessed at Georgia's Oncology Center — construction resumes on the Church of Ss. Panteleimon the Healer and John the Baptist.