RIP: Ray McCauley, founder of Rhema Bible Church, passes away at 75

Pastor Ray McCauley, the founder of Rhema Bible Church, has passed away.

He was 75.

His family confirmed in a statement that he passed on peacefully at home surrounded by loved ones. 

‘Profound sadness’

“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 18:46.

“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.

McCauley founded what would become one of South Africa’s most influential churches in 1979.

It gained more prominence during Jacob Zuma’s presidency when McCauley founded the National Interfaith Leadership Council, which was dubbed Zuma’s “God Squad” because of its close relations with him.

At the time of his death, he had stepped down from the church leadership because of ill health.  

He handed the position of senior pastor to his son, Pastor Joshua McCauley, in 2022.

The Rhema Bible Church has over 45 000 members.

McCauley also served as President of the International Federation of Christian Churches.

Before his church commitments, the US-trained pastor was also a champion bodybuilder, a former Mr South Africa, a Mr Universe top three finalist and an author.