A day intended for worship, fellowship and celebration ended in unimaginable heartbreak when Pastor Robert Earl Guanco was killed at Big Church Festival-but the moving tributes now pouring in reveal that he was far more than the victim of a terrible accident.
He was a husband, father, son, brother, mentor, friend and faithful servant of God.
Pastor Robert, 41, served at Jesus Living Water Church in Eastbourne, England. He died on Friday, August 28, after a large wooden sign fell at the Christian music festival at Wiston Park near Steyning, West Sussex.
Six other people were injured in the incident, with four taken to the hospital for additional treatment. Festivalgoers reportedly rushed forward and attempted to lift the heavy structure, which bore the haunting words "Everything's Unmissable."
Witnesses said that strong winds appeared to bring down the sign, but the exact circumstances remain under investigation. Sussex Police, the Health and Safety Executive and other relevant authorities are working to establish what happened. Attendees who captured photographs or video have been encouraged to contact police.
Yet as investigators search for answers, those who loved Pastor Robert are remembering the man behind the headlines.
"Pastor Robert was more than a pastor," a fundraiser created for his family states. "He was a beloved son, cherished brother, loving husband to Isaeli, a great father to Ellie, and faithful servant of God."
The tribute describes him as a good friend and mentor whose life reflected "humility, faith, love, compassion and service." Through his prayers, encouragement, ministry and personal kindness, he reportedly touched the lives of many people.
"His passing is deeply felt by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him," the tribute continues.
Pastor Robert leaves behind his wife, Isaeli-also known as Isay-and their daughter, Ellie. The sudden loss has left the family facing not only overwhelming grief but also the practical and financial consequences of losing a husband and father without warning.
The response from the Christian community has been extraordinary. As of August 31, more than 4,400 people had contributed over £138,000 toward the fundraiser's £140,000 goal. The money will help Isaeli and Ellie meet immediate expenses while giving them space to grieve and begin the long process of healing.
The appeal has become more than a financial campaign. Each donation, prayer and message represents another person standing beside a family whose world changed in a matter of seconds.
Jesus Living Water Church has also announced an open service to remember Pastor Robert's ministry. The gathering will honor his life while celebrating his daughter Ellie's birthday-a deeply bittersweet reminder of the family moments he should still be here to share.
In its public tribute, the church did not pretend to possess easy answers.
"We are mourning, grieving, praying, and trusting in the Lord during this incredibly difficult time," church leaders wrote. "There are many things we may never fully understand, and our hearts may struggle to make sense of what has happened. Yet, even in our deepest sorrow, we continue to trust in the sovereignty of God."
The church said it takes comfort in believing that Pastor Robert is now with the Lord, "free from suffering and resting in eternal glory." Its tribute concluded with the words of Matthew 25:23: "Well done, good and faithful servant."
Big Church Festival organizers canceled the remainder of the three-day event following the tragedy. The gathering had been expected to bring thousands of Christians together for performances by artists including Lauren Daigle, Lecrae, CeCe Winans and for KING & COUNTRY.
Organizers said they were "heartbroken" and "devastated" by Pastor Robert's death. Their thoughts remain with his family, church, the injured attendees and everyone who witnessed the incident.
Churches Together in England said it stood with the nation's churches in "collective grief." The organization acknowledged that many people are naturally asking why such a tragedy could happen during a Christian festival devoted to worship.
"There are no easy answers," its statement said, while praying that God would grant those affected "the peace of God that passes all understanding."
Archbishop of Canterbury Dame Sarah Mullally also said she was "sad and shocked." She offered prayers for Pastor Robert's family and friends, those receiving medical care, the healthcare workers treating them and the festival community attempting to process what happened.
Pastor Robert's death has left a painful absence in his home and congregation. His daughter has lost her father, Isaeli has lost her husband, and a church has lost the shepherd who prayed with its members, encouraged them and helped carry their burdens.
But those closest to him believe death will not erase what his life produced.
"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," the fundraiser states.
Pastor Robert went to Big Church Festival to worship alongside other believers. He did not return home. Yet the testimony emerging from his congregation is that he had already spent his life pointing others toward the home he believed awaited him.
Now, amid questions that may never be fully answered, his church is holding fast to the faith he preached: Pastor Robert's earthly ministry has ended, but the love he gave, the prayers he prayed and the people he led toward Christ remain.
