Hundreds of mourners gathered at the Rhema Bible Church in Randburg today to pay their last respects to founder and church leader, Pastor Ray McCauley.

McCauley who is regarded by the likes of former Miss South Africa and businesswoman Basetsana Khumalo and singer and pastor Kabelo Mabalane as their spiritual father, died at his home last week, after being in and out of hospital. He attracted countless heartfelt tributes from around the world. During one of the church services prior to his funeral his son, Pastor Joshua McCauley, expressed deep admiration, saying, "My father always reminded me that Rhema Bible Church is his church. He truly touched millions of lives around the world." 

HE TOUCHED MANY LIVES

Known for his leadership in ministry and humanitarian efforts, McCauley's dedication has touched countless lives, leaving a lasting legacy of faith and as well as his preaching of racial integration during the peak of apartheid. 

One of the people worked closely with him is Kabelo Mabalane, whom he described as his spiritual father and a titan. "I have had the privilege of sitting down and have lunch with him for the past 20 years. He is a titan who died with his boots on," said Mabalane. 

HE HAD THE ABILITY TO TOUCH LIVES

Grace Bible church Pastor Musa Sono, who who worked for McCauley when he first started out, described him as a someone who had the ability to interact with anyone, no matter what background and colour. He said this week he cried everyday but took comfort that he lived a purposefully. 

"There are several things I liked about him- commitment to the gospel. Secondly, he became involved in social issues, confronting issues such as crime, corruption and social injustice. He spoke to political parties and his ability to mentor anyone he worked closely with despite background and colour," said Sono.