Catholic priest burns to death after spark ignites robes during Easter candle-lighting ceremony

In a horrific tragedy in Spain, a priest died during a candle-lighting service on Easter

A "beloved" Spanish priest tragically lost his life in a fire during an Easter candle-lighting vigil. Javier Sánchez, hailed as a hero, shielded a group of nuns as his robe caught fire at a convent in Zaragoza, Spain. The incident occurred when an ember bowl surrounded by candles ignited during the Easter weekend.

A simple spark from a candle ignited his vestment, causing the fire to rapidly spread, resulting in severe burns covering 50 percent of his body. Despite spending four days in intensive care, he succumbed to multiple organ failure. He saved the nuns by positioning himself between the bowl and the group as the fire erupted. Investigators suspect that paraffin was used to fuel the ember bowl.

"The priest bravely shielded the nuns of the convent when embers ignited in the basin, ultimately leading to his tragic demise. It appears a flammable substance was used to ignite the fire during the Easter Vigil held inside the convent," a source told El Heraldo de Aragón.

The clergyman, affectionately known as the "rock priest" for his passion for guitar-driven music, was conducting the "blessing of the fire" ritual during the Holy Saturday Mass. This ritual includes lighting the paschal candle, which remains lit for 50 days until Pentecost, symbolizing the descent of the Holy Spirit.

Apart from his parish duties, the "rock priest" served at the Clinical Hospital of Zaragosa and had a musical career, composing songs and releasing three albums. One of his songs, "A tu aire," stirred controversy in 2015 due to its music video showing him wearing angel wings and playing the guitar, the only item covering his private parts. He also hosted a talk show on television.

Tributes poured in on social media after his tragic passing. A friend described him as a "vital and beloved person." The local archbishop mourned his death, expressing prayers for his eternal rest. The San Gregorio neighborhood association secretary likened the news to a sudden shock, despite the priest's relatively short time in the community. The Brotherhood of Humility extended heartfelt condolences to his family, honoring his memory and wishing for his peaceful rest in heaven.