By Thabo Mosia
President Cyril Ramaphosa has extended his condolences following the passing of Pastor Ray McCauley, the founder of Rhema Bible Church. McCauley, an influential figure in South Africa’s Christian community, died peacefully at his home in Johannesburg on the evening of 8 October 2024. He was surrounded by his family and loved ones at the time of his passing, as confirmed in a statement issued by the church.
The Legacy of Pastor Ray McCauley
Pastor Ray McCauley was a prominent evangelical leader known for his impactful ministry and community outreach. He founded Rhema Bible Church in 1979, growing it into one of the largest congregations in South Africa. Over the years, he also served as president of the International Federation of Christian Churches (IFCC) and co-chaired the National Interfaith Council of South Africa (Nicsa). His influence extended beyond the pulpit, as he played a vital role in South Africa’s transition to democracy. During the Truth and Reconciliation Commission hearings, McCauley encouraged white South Africans to acknowledge their complicity in apartheid-era injustices.
Statement from Rhema Bible Church
The announcement of McCauley’s passing was made by his son, Pastor Joshua McCauley, who stated, “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.” He added that McCauley had “gone to be with the Lord peacefully at his home,” surrounded by his family. The church acknowledged McCauley’s unwavering dedication to his faith, even after stepping back from active church duties at the age of 75.
Tributes from the Christian Community
The South African National Christian Forum (SANCF) paid tribute to McCauley, describing him as “an outstanding ecumenical leader” whose life and ministry impacted countless lives. The SANCF praised his decades-long commitment to Christian leadership, noting that he was instrumental in guiding many believers through challenging times. “He will be remembered as one of the great Christian leaders in the country,” the SANCF stated.
President Ramaphosa’s Message of Condolence
President Ramaphosa expressed his sorrow at McCauley’s passing, highlighting the pastor’s influence on the spiritual life of many South Africans. “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,” Ramaphosa said. He offered his condolences to McCauley’s wife, Zelda, his children, extended family, and the broader Rhema congregation.
McCauley’s Role in South Africa’s History
McCauley’s influence reached into the socio-political sphere, particularly during the country’s transformative years in the 1990s. As the IFCC president, he publicly urged white South Africans to reflect on their roles during apartheid and to seek reconciliation. His willingness to address difficult truths earned him respect across various communities, marking him as a spiritual leader who was deeply committed to justice and unity.
Download Here:
Read all our publications on magzter:
https://www.magzter.com/ZA/Central-News-Pty-Ltd/Central-News/Newspaper/All-Issues
Central News also offers Sponsored Editorial Content, Podcasts , Radio / Social Media Simulcast, Video Production , Live Streaming Services, Press Conferences, and Paid Interviews (Video/Audio) etc.
We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.
Advertisement:
To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za
For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za
Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za
General Info:
info@centralnews.co.za
Office Administrator:
admin@centralnews.co.za
Whatsapp / Call: 081 495 5487
Website: https://www.centralnews.co.za
Social Media Platforms (@centralnewsza) : Linkedin, Facebook, Tiktok, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube
#centralnewsza #freestate