The late founder of Rhema Bible Church, Pastor Ray McCauley, has been described as a beacon of hope and one of the great Christian leaders in the country.
The news of McCauley’s passing was confirmed by his family in a statement yesterday.
“It is with deep sorrow and profound sadness that we announce the passing of Pastor Ray McCauley, founder of Rhema Bible Church, an evangelical leader,”
Pastor Ray went to be with the Lord peacefully at his home, surrounded by his family and loved ones at 18h46.
At 75, Pastor Ray had stepped back from active church duties but remained fully committed to serving the body of Christ.
His enduring legacy as a servant leader will continue to impact communities far beyond his lifetime,” read a statement from the family,” said McCauley’s son, Joshua.
McCauley’s family said details regarding his memorial service and funeral will be communicated soon.
He’s also a former Co-Chair of the National Interfaith Council of South Africa, and President of the International Federation of Christian Churches.
President Cyril Ramaphosa described McCauley’s passing as sad and sent a message of condolences to his widow Zelda, children, the extended family and the large community of the Rhema Bible Church.
“Pastor Ray’s passing leaves our deeply spiritual nation bereft of a remarkable leader whose impressive legacy lives on in the faith of hundreds of thousands of believers within and beyond the Rhema community.
May his soul rest in peace,” said Ramaphosa.
Meanwhile, the South African National Christian Forum (SANCF) has described McCauley as an outstanding ecumenical leader, adding that they thank God for life and witness during the past several decades.
“He was an icon of faith who remained committed to serving the body of Christ even after he stepped back from active church duties at the age of 75.
His enduring legacy as a servant leader will continue to impact communities far beyond his lifetime in many ways.
Pastor McCauley’s contributions and expertise in the field of Christianity have been widely acknowledged,
As we mourn his passing away, the SANCF recognises and remembers his invaluable contributions to the body of Christ.
He will be remembered as one of the great Christian leaders in the country,” explained SANCF President Bishop Marothi Mashashane.
