Beloved Spanish priest dies as result of accidental fire during Easter vigil

A tragic scene unfolded during an Easter vigil in Spain last weekend, which claimed the life of a well-known Catholic cleric.

Javier Sanchez, a priest from Zaragoza, was taking part in a candle ceremony when his vestments accidentally caught fire and caused him to suffer severe -- and ultimately fatal -- burns, as the Daily Mail reports.

The event at issue was taking place at a convent, according to sources, and that is when a bowl of embers that was in close proximity to candles was inadvertently set alight.

Sparks were sent flying from the container, and they unfortunately ignited Sanchez's robes.

Notably, witnesses indicated that the priest put himself in between the flames and the nuns who were present in order to shield them from danger.

As the National Catholic Register noted, sources close to the situation told El Heraldo de Aragon that “The priest tried to protect the nuns of the convent when embers lit up in the basin that was used [for the fire] and that ultimately caused his death.”

“Apparently a flammable substance had been used to start the fire,” the source added.

Despite having been rushed to Miguel Servet Hospital, Sanchez ultimately succumbed to multiple organ failure after spending four days in the facility's intensive care unit.

Sanchez, 60, was a parish priest at St. Gregory Church and served in the role of counselor of the Brotherhood of Humility, according to the Register.

He was also chaplain of the Franciscan Conceptionists of the Santa Isabel neighborhood in the town of Zaragoza, as a statement from the archdiocese revealed.

Affectionately known as the “rocker priest,” for his devotion to music, Sanchez had made three albums over the course of his life and had also performed live in Spain and elsewhere around the world.

As news of Sanchez's death began to spread, the Brotherhood of Humility took to social media to express sadness over the loss.

Offering “deepest condolences and support to his entire family,” and scheduling a Mass in his honor, the group said, “May the humility of God and the sweetness of Mary shelter you in heaven. Rest in peace. We will never forget you, Javi. Care for us in glory.”

Sanchez's funeral was held on April 5, officiated by Carlos Escribano, archbishop of Zaragoza, and it is abundantly clear that the beloved priest leaves behind a grateful community that has been deeply affected by his tragic and sudden passing.