A 60-year-old Catholic priest passed away after his robes caught fire during a candle-light ceremony at an Easter vigil. The tragic incident occurred in Zaragoza city, Spain, resulting in the death of Father Javier Sánchez due to severe burns sustained. Reports from Daily Mail revealed that he suffered 50% burns in the accident over the Easter weekend and succumbed to his injuries after four days in intensive care. The ignition of his robes was caused by sparks from an ember bowl surrounded by candles. Father Sánchez heroically shielded nuns from the flames, standing between them and the burning bowl. An investigation is ongoing, as it is suspected that a flammable substance, possibly paraffin, was used on the ember bowl. Despite being rushed to Miguel Servet Hospital, Father Sanchez’s injuries proved fatal, leading to multiple organ failure and his untimely passing.
During the Easter Vigil, Father Sánchez oversaw the ‘blessing of the fire,’ a significant ritual marking Holy Saturday, where a paschal candle remained lit for 50 days until Pentecost. Known as the ‘rock priest’ for his musical talents and three released albums, he also served as a priest at the Clinical Hospital of Zaragoza and in the parish of La Jota, and hosted a television talk show. Colleagues and friends have mourned his loss, praising his vitality and warmth. Tributes poured in following his passing, with the Archbishop of Zaragoza expressing condolences and prayers for his eternal rest. The news of Father Sánchez’s death deeply affected the San Gregorio neighborhood, with local residents remembering him as a kind and beloved figure despite his short time in the community.
