McCauley praised as ‘voice for the voiceless’

He died on Tuesday night at the age of 75.

McCauley was the founder of the Rhema Bible Church and former Co-Chair of the National Interfaith Council of South Africa.

He was a prominent South African religious leader, former Senior Pastor of Rhema Bible Church, President of the International Federation of Christian Churches (IFCC), co-chair of the National Interfaith Council of South Africa (NICSA), author and former champion bodybuilder.

The South African National Christian Forum President  Bishop  Mashashane has hailed McCauley as an icon of faith.

"His enduring legacy as a servant leader will continue to impact communities far beyond his lifetime in many ways,” Mashashane said.

"Pastor Raymond's contributions and expertise in the field of Christianity have been widely acknowledged.

"As we mourn his passing away, the SANCF recognises and remembers his invaluable contributions to the body of Christ. He will be remembered as one of the great Christian leaders in the country. "

The South African Council of Churches (SACC) acting secretary general Mzwandile Molo hailed McCauley as a voice for the voiceless.

"The loss to the nation of such a significant voice in the faith is deeply felt, especially in these times that are fraught with many social ills, where the nation continues to be in need of a clear moral voice.

"In the post-apartheid society, he was a voice, amongst many, that not only called for the moral renewal of the country but spent his time in prayerful action for such a renewal.

"We trust that because of his faithfulness to God in following his calling to serve humanity, Pastor Ray will be received with open arms into God’s eternal happiness. The SACC, as part of the faith community and the nation at large, honours the life and work of Pastor Ray and gives thanks to God for giving the nation such a gift."

McCauley is survived by his wife, Zelda, his son, Joshua, his daughter-in-law, Tara, and the entire extended family.

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