Tributes have continued to pour in for Robert Guanco, a 41-year-old pastor who was killed after a large sign collapsed at the Big Church Festival in West Sussex, United Kingdom, on Friday.
Guanco, who served as a pastor at Jesus the Living Water Church in Eastbourne, East Sussex, was among those caught in the incident at the Christian gathering near Steyning.
Six other people were injured when the sign fell, with four of them taken to hospital for treatment.
In a statement, his church said: “Pastor Robert was a faithful servant of God, a loving husband to Isay, a devoted and caring father to Ellie, and a blessing to so many people whose lives he touched. His life, his faith, his love, and his service to God will never be forgotten.”
Pastor Norman Ponce of Jesus the Living Water Worldwide Church also described Guanco as a “faithful servant of God” in a fundraising appeal established for his family.
“What was meant to be a time of worship, fellowship, and celebration became an unimaginable tragedy,” he added.
Ponce further described Guanco as a “beloved son, cherished brother, loving husband” and “great father”.
“He was also a good friend, mentor, and a blessing to so many people whose lives he touched,” Ponce said.
“His life reflected humility, faith, love, compassion, and service. Through his ministry, kindness, prayers, and encouragement, he touched many lives.”
According to Ponce, Guanco’s family is now dealing with an “unimaginable loss” following his death.
“Though Pastor Robert’s earthly journey has come to an end, his legacy of faith, love, service, and the lives he touched will never be forgotten,” Ponce said.
“The seeds he planted through his ministry and his love for others will continue to live on through those he served and the family he left behind.”
Guanco’s church has invited members of the public to the Sovereign Harbour Community Centre in Eastbourne on Sunday to remember the pastor and mark his daughter’s birthday.
Eastbourne MP Josh Babarinde also expressed his condolences, recalling a previous meeting with members of Guanco’s congregation.
“Their energy and spirit was inspiring,” he said.
“This, in so many ways, is a testament to his pastorship and his commitment to his church.
“I cannot imagine how difficult this must be for his family – Pastor Robert was a father and husband too – and I send them and his church my most sincere condolences.”
The Big Church Festival, founded in 2009, describes itself as the UK’s biggest Christian festival.
This year’s event at Wiston Park began on Friday and was scheduled to run until Sunday.
However, organisers cancelled the remaining activities following the fatal incident.
The Archbishop of Canterbury, Dame Sarah Mullally, said she was “sad and shocked” by what happened.
“I pray for his family, friends and loved ones as they grieve. I pray for those receiving treatment, and the healthcare workers looking after them.
“And I pray too for the other festival goers, staff and event organisers as they come to terms with these tragic events.”
Witnesses said festival-goers rushed to help after the heavy sign, which carried the words “Everything’s Unmissable”, was blown over by strong winds.
Organisers said they were cooperating with emergency services as investigations into the circumstances of the incident continued.
Sussex Police has appealed to anyone who may have information about the incident to come forward.
The force also confirmed that the Health and Safety Executive and the local authority had been notified.
