Ray McCauley: Founder of South Africa’s Rhema church dies aged 75

His church become a pillar of South African society and many high-profile figures like former President Jacob Zumba, members of parliament and sports stars attended services.

In 2009 Mr McCauley was accused of political bias as he allowed the then-unelected President Zuma to speak to his congregation.

He was a member of the National Interfaith Leaders Council (NILC) a body meant to advise on delivery of social services, and he publicly defended Zuma and ANC members on many controversial issues.

At the peak of his influence he was described as the “high priest of South Africa” according to the UK’s Independent news site, external.

But he was criticised for living like a millionaire and preaching the prosperity gospel.

In 2008, he earned about 68m rand ($3.8m; £2.9m), most of which came from tithes and offerings, according to Business Live., external

He was also heavily criticised for divorcing his first wife Lyndie in 2000, as there were no biblical grounds. This divided his congregation and many people left the church.

Mr McCauley married his second wife Zelda Ireland shortly afterwards, in 2001.

Before he became a spiritual leader, Mr McCauley was a bodybuilder and owned gyms. He took part in the Mr Universe competition in 1974 and came in the top three.

Although he stepped back from active church duties at Rhema in 2022, he preached a sermon at the church a few weeks ago.

He is survived by his widow Zelda, son Joshua by his first wife, and three grandchildren.