A pastor was killed Friday when a sign fell on him at the Big Church Festival near Steyning in West Sussex, England. His church identified him as Robert Guanco, 41, who served as a pastor at Jesus the Living Water Church in Eastbourne, East Sussex. Six other people were injured in the incident, four of whom were taken to hospital.
According to BBC News, the Big Church Festival describes itself as the UK's biggest Christian festival and was founded in 2009. The event at Wiston Park had begun Friday and was scheduled to run through Sunday, but organizers canceled the remainder of the event following the accident.
In a statement, Guanco's 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 wrote on a fundraising page for Guanco's family that "What was meant to be a time of worship, fellowship, and celebration became an unimaginable tragedy." Ponce described Guanco as "a beloved son, cherished brother, loving husband" and "great father," adding that "his life reflected humility, faith, love, compassion, and service."
The Archbishop of Canterbury, Dame Sarah Mullally, said she was "sad and shocked" to hear of the incident and said she prayed for Guanco's family, for those receiving treatment, and for festival goers, staff, and organizers.
Eastbourne MP Josh Babarinde said he had met members of Guanco's congregation earlier in the summer. "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."
Guanco's church invited people to the Sovereign Harbour Community Centre in Eastbourne on Sunday to commemorate the pastor's life and to mark his daughter's birthday.
