A joyful weekend of faith and music in the English countryside descended into heartbreak on Friday, August 28, when a large wooden overhead sign collapsed. Pastor Robert Guanco died after a sign fell on him at the Big Church festival. High winds at the Big Church Festival near Steyning in West Sussex killed a 41-year-old pastor and injured six others. Robert Guanco, who led Jesus Living Water Church in Eastbourne, East Sussex, was struck when the heavy sign bearing the words “Everything’s Unmissable” came crashing down. Four of the six people hurt in the incident required hospital treatment. Witnesses at the scene rushed to try to lift the structure and help those trapped beneath it. Guanco’s church community released a heartfelt tribute alongside a fundraising appeal for his family, describing him as “our beloved brother, friend and pastor.” Those who knew him spoke of his quiet devotion to his wife Isay and daughter Ellie, and the warmth he brought to everyone around him. “Through his ministry, kindness, prayers and encouragement, he touched many lives,” the church said. “His passing is deeply felt by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.” The Big Church Festival, which launched in 2009 and is considered the United Kingdom’s largest Christian gathering, was immediately brought to a halt. The Guardian reports that organisers scrapped all remaining performances and worship sessions scheduled to run through Sunday.
“We are devastated by the serious incident,” they said in a statement. “Particularly with the family, friends and church of Pastor Guanco as they process the immense grief of his loss.” The Archbishop of Canterbury, Dame Sarah Mullally, added her voice to those expressing sorrow. “I am sad and shocked by this incident,” she said. “I pray for his family, friends and loved ones as they grieve, for those receiving treatment and the healthcare workers looking after them, and for the other festivalgoers, staff and organisers as they come to terms with these tragic events.” Many attendees only realised the gravity of the situation when the festival’s live stream on God TV was abruptly paused “due to unforeseen circumstances,” with no immediate explanation given. Sussex Police are continuing to investigate the circumstances of the collapse. Pastor Robert Guanco died after a sign fell on him at the Big Church festival. Why did Pastor Ng’ang’a praise Catholic church? Closer home, Pastor James Ng’ang’a sparked online discussion after criticising modern Protestant churches in Kenya during an outdoor crusade. He questioned how easy it is to become a church leader and mocked elaborate titles and frequent church rebranding. Ng’ang’a also surprised attendees by praising the Catholic Church, arguing that its structured system offers better accountability in handling church affairs and leadership.
