Obituary – Death – Cause of death News : Pastor Ray McCauley, a well-known anti-apartheid leader and founder of Rhema Bible Church in Johannesburg, South Africa, passed away at the age of 75 on Oct. 8. He was a prominent Pentecostal figure and former co-chairman of the National Interfaith Council of South Africa. Pastor McCauley died at his home surrounded by loved ones, shortly after celebrating his birthday.
His son, Pastor Joshua McCauley, who currently serves as the senior pastor of Rhema, shared the news in a statement released by the church. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa also paid tribute to Pastor Ray McCauley, acknowledging his significant impact on the nation and beyond.
Born in Johannesburg, Pastor McCauley had a diverse background, starting as an award-winning bodybuilder and later working as a nightclub bouncer before finding his calling in ministry. After attending Rhema Bible Training Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma, he returned to South Africa and established Rhema Bible Church in 1979. He was known for his commitment to non-segregated church services, defying the apartheid regime.
Throughout his life, Pastor McCauley remained dedicated to his faith and the fight against injustice. His legacy lives on in the hearts of the countless believers he inspired. His passing marks the end of an era for the Rhema community and the nation as a whole.
For more information on Pastor Ray McCauley’s life and ministry, visit the Charisma website. Stay connected with current issues, Christian teachings, and more by subscribing to Charisma newsletters today.
‘Servant Leader’: Pastor Ray McCauley, South African Megachurch Founder, Dies at 75
Who was Pastor Ray McCauley?
Pastor Ray McCauley was an internationally known anti-apartheid leader and founder of Rhema Bible Church in Johannesburg, South Africa. He passed away at the age of 75 on Oct. 8. McCauley was a leading Pentecostal and former co-chairman of the National Interfaith Council of South Africa.
What was McCauley’s legacy?
McCauley’s legacy lives on in the faith of hundreds of thousands of believers within and beyond the Rhema community. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa honored McCauley’s life and ministry, acknowledging the remarkable leader he was.
What was McCauley’s background?
Born in Johannesburg, McCauley was an award-winning professional bodybuilder in his youth and later worked as a nightclub bouncer. After converting to Christ, he attended Pastor Kenneth Hagin Sr.’s Rhema Bible Training Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma, which he considered a turning point in his life.
What impact did McCauley have on apartheid?
McCauley defied proponents of apartheid by holding nonsegregated church services at Rhema Bible Church. In 1990, Rhema was one of 97 churches to sign the anti-apartheid Rustenburg Declaration, showcasing McCauley’s commitment to equality and justice.
What was McCauley’s role in the community?
As the founder of Rhema Bible Church, McCauley played a pivotal role in shaping the spiritual landscape of South Africa. His influence extended beyond the church walls, impacting the lives of many believers and contributing to the fight against apartheid.
How did McCauley’s passing affect the nation?
McCauley’s passing left South Africa bereft of a significant leader, with President Cyril Ramaphosa acknowledging the deep spiritual impact McCauley had on the nation. His impressive legacy continues to inspire and guide the faith of believers in South Africa and beyond.
Article Source: Charisma Magazine
During a time of extreme racial segregation in South Africa, Pastor Ray McCauley defied the proponents of apartheid by holding nonsegregated church services at Rhema Church. This bold move challenged the status quo and sent a powerful message of unity and equality.
In 1990, Rhema Church made history by being one of the 97 churches to sign the anti-apartheid Rustenburg Declaration. This declaration was a significant step towards dismantling the oppressive system of apartheid and promoting justice and reconciliation in South Africa.
The decision to sign the Rustenburg Declaration was not an easy one, as it went against the beliefs of many at the time. However, Pastor Ray McCauley and the leaders of Rhema Church stood firm in their conviction that all people are equal in the eyes of God, regardless of race or ethnicity.
The signing of the Rustenburg Declaration marked a turning point for Rhema Church and solidified its commitment to social justice and equality. It was a powerful statement of solidarity with those who were oppressed and marginalized under the apartheid regime.
In the years that followed, Rhema Church continued to be a beacon of hope and unity in South Africa. Its nonsegregated services and commitment to social justice drew people from all walks of life, creating a diverse and inclusive community.
Today, Rhema Church stands as a testament to the power of faith and the impact that a united community can have on the world. Its legacy of standing up against injustice and promoting equality continues to inspire generations of believers to make a difference in their own communities.
To learn more about the history of Rhema Church and its role in the fight against apartheid, please visit this link for the full article.
Join Charisma Magazine Online to stay updated on everything the Holy Spirit is doing around the world. Don’t miss out on the latest news and stories of faith and inspiration. Join us today and be a part of a global community of believers making a difference in the world.