Internationally admired South African evangelical pastor, Ray McCauley, who founded the Rhema Bible Church has died.
He was 75.
“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,” McCauley’s son, Joshua McCauley, a senior pastor at the church at the church said in a statement.
“Pastor Ray has gone 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. Further details will be communicated in due course. The family appreciate your prayers and support during this difficult time,” the statement concluded.
Ray McCauley, born on October 1, 1949 in Johannesburg, has experienced a transformational and devotional journey.
Before becoming a preacher, McCauley 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, which was far different from the spiritual leadership he would eventually embrace.
In 1978, McCauley and his first wife, Lyndie, attended the Rhema Bible Training Center in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma.
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 leadership, the congregation grew rapidly, moving through a series of venues before settling in a massive 7,500-seat auditorium in Randburg, Johannesburg.
Beyond his church leadership, McCauley played a pivotal role in South Africa’s political and social transformation during the late apartheid years.
His influence extended beyond the pulpit, engaging in dialogues that supported the nation’s peaceful transition to democracy in 1994.
He met with notable people such as Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu and Reverend Frank Chikane, strengthening his position as a bridge-builder in South Africa’s changing political scene.
McCauley was also President of the International Federation of Christian Churches (IFCC) and co-chair of South Africa’s National Interfaith Council (NICSA).
He was a regular speaker at global evangelical events, touching many people’s lives with his outstanding oratory and strong faith.
Although Pastor Ray had stepped back from the day-to-day operations of Rhema Bible Church in recent years, he remained involved in the evangelical world and committed to his purpose.