Published by on

Pastor Ray McCauley, the founder and leader of Rhema Bible Church, has passed away, Cape {town} Etc reports. He was 75 years old.

Also read: Cape Town rated the world’s fifth friendliest city by Condé Nast

According to his son Joshua McCauley, McCauley died on Tuesday night in the company of his family and loved ones.

‘It is with deep sorrow and profound sadness that we announce the passing of renowned South African evangelical leader and founder of Rhema Bible Church, Pastor Ray McCauley.

‘Pastor Ray has gone to be with the Lord peacefully at his home, surrounded by his family and loved ones, at 6:46pm (Tuesday, 8 October),’ Joshua McCauley said.

Find your perfect set of wheels with these incredible deals on cars for under 100k.

Joshua reported that although his father was no longer actively involved in church activities at Rhema, he was still totally dedicated to helping the ‘body of Christ.’

‘His enduring legacy as a servant leader will continue to impact communities far beyond his lifetime.’

Joshua thanked South Africans for their support, adding that further details about his father’s funeral would be communicated.

Meanwhile, tributes for the late pastor continue to spread on social media.

‘A big tree has fallen!’ posted Premier of Gauteng Panyaza Lesufi. ‘Our sincerest condolences to the Rhema Family. Be assured of the support of the Gauteng Government during these difficult times.’

‘He was a leader who brought all races together,  a visionary and a father of our generation. Condolences to the McCauley family and Rhema church. May his soul rest in peace,’ added Bi Phakathi

Born on 1 October, 1949, McCauley experienced a transformational and devotional journey.

Before becoming a preacher, he competed in bodybuilding, winning the title of Mr South Africa and finishing third in the 1974 Mr Universe competition in London.

In his early years, he also worked as a nightclub bouncer.

In 1978, McCauley and his first wife, Lyndie, attended the Rhema Bible Training Centre in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma.

Cape {town} Etc discount: Looking for things to do in the city, at half the price?

When the couple returned to South Africa, they established Rhema Bible Church, beginning having services in the McCauley family home with only 13 people.

Under Pastor Ray’s direction, the congregation expanded fast, travelling through many facilities before settling in a vast 7 500-seat auditorium in Randburg, Johannesburg.

Also read:

Africa Oil Week: Mantashe slams ‘foreign-funded’ activists

Picture: Uncle Solomon / X

Article written by