When a joint Portuguese and Spanish force attacks, the mission is initially defended by Mendoza, John, and the Guaraní. They are no match for the military force. Mendoza is shot and fatally wounded after the soldiers destroy a trap, allowing them to enter the village. Father John sacrifices himself by luring the Portuguese commander into a trap as he is killed. Upon seeing the church service at the mission village, the soldiers become reluctant to fire. When the soldiers enter the mission village, they encounter the singing of Father Gabriel and the Guaraní women and children who march in a religious procession. Father Gabriel leads, carrying a monstrance with the Blessed Sacrament. Ignoring this, the Spanish commander orders the attack; Father Gabriel, the rest of the priests and most of the Guaraní, including women and children, are systematically gunned down. After Father Gabriel is shot, a child picks up the Blessed Sacrament and continues leading the procession. Only a handful of children escape into the jungle.