The Rhema Bible Church has announced the passing of its founder, Pastor Ray McCauley, at the age of 75.
“Pastor Ray peacefully joined the Lord at his home, surrounded by his family and loved ones,” said his son, Joshua McCauley, the church’s current senior pastor.
McCauley had retired from active ministry but remained a deeply respected figure within the church.
The congregation honoured him as “a servant leader whose impact will continue to resonate in communities far beyond his lifetime.”
Before dedicating his life to ministry, McCauley was a well-known bodybuilder and owned a chain of gymnasiums.
His journey took a significant turn when he established Rhema Bible Church in Randburg in 1979, growing it into one of South Africa’s most influential churches.
In May 2022, McCauley officially handed over leadership of the church to his son Joshua and his wife, Tara.
President Cyril Ramaphosa, speaking at an event celebrating Rhema’s 40th anniversary, praised McCauley for his active role in the fight against apartheid and his commitment to social justice.
“Since January 1979, you have been a constant and reassuring presence, taking a strong stand against apartheid and all forms of social injustice.”
He also commended Rhema for being one of the largest multiracial churches during the apartheid era, adding, “You have taken upon yourselves the task of building a non-racial society where the equal worth of every person is recognised and affirmed. You have worked tirelessly to make a material difference in the lives of our people.”
The church’s outreach programmes, which include gender-sensitivity workshops, rape crisis counselling, mentoring and development initiatives, substance abuse recovery, and support for men striving to be better husbands, fathers, and sons, were highlighted as a testament to McCauley’s enduring legacy.
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