Prophet/Dr TA Ralekholela — is a pioneering evangelist, revivalist, author, mentor, and community builder whose ministry has shaped the face of African evangelism for over four decades. Born on December 10, 1955, in Parys, Free State, he began his journey in humble beginnings, later transitioning from a career in civil service to a full-time calling in ministry after a radical salvation experience in 1978.
Married to Emily Ralekholela, with whom he has four children, Prophet/Dr Ralekholela’s life is anchored in faith, family, and the fire of the Gospel. His early pastoral ministry began in the Apostolic Faith Mission (AFM), where he was officially ordained in 1982. He pastored in QwaQwa for several years before responding to the unmistakable call to mass evangelism.
Driven by a passion for the proclamation of the Gospel—kerygma—he studied theology at the AFM Bible College, then furthered his education with a theology degree from the International Theological Institute (1989–2000). He also holds a B.A. Honours degree from North-West University (formerly Potchefstroom University) and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree focused on the relevance of mass evangelism in the age of technological advancement.
In the late 1980s, he founded Gospel Fire Evangelistic Ministries, which later expanded to Gospel Fire Ministries International, becoming one of South Africa’s largest evangelistic movements. His tent crusades began with modest gatherings, growing into mass events that required tents seating up to 25,000 people—some custom-built from remnants of Reinhard Bonnke’s torn tents. His gatherings soon overflowed into stadiums and halls as thousands responded to the Gospel call.
A respected voice in the global African diaspora, Prophet Ralekholela has conducted evangelism campaigns in South Africa, Botswana, Lesotho, Kenya, Nigeria, Uganda, Angola, Namibia, England, Singapore, Mauritius, Indonesia, the Middle East, and the United States. His burning vision remains: “God’s Fire Burning in Africa.”
Beyond crusades, his Gathering of Eagles Conferences, hosted annually at Miracle City near Vereeniging, have become a spiritual pilgrimage for many pastors and church leaders. These gatherings promote the unity of the Body of Christ, facilitate mentorship, and foster strategic collaboration among ministers. His influence has helped establish a common ethos, language, and apostolic voice among Pentecostal and charismatic churches across Southern Africa.
He is also a prolific author, having published 12 books to date, offering insights on leadership, spiritual growth, evangelism, and revival. His writings and teachings have influenced countless preachers, pastors, and ministry leaders who view him as a spiritual father and mentor. Ministers from across Angola, Kenya, Uganda, Namibia, and the UK consider him a model of leadership, wisdom, and balance in ministry and life.
Committed to holistic ministry, he is known not only as a preacher but also as a community builder, humanitarian, and advocate for social transformation. Through various ministry arms, he has spearheaded poverty alleviation programs, HIV/AIDS counselling, leadership training, entrepreneurship development, and media outreach. His work has earned him numerous acknowledgments, including the 2019 Department of Social Development’s “Man of the Year” award.
Prophet/Dr TA Ralekholela continues to speak weekly to millions through radio and television, carrying a message of revival, healing, and hope. His legacy is one of uncompromising faith, unifying leadership, and an unrelenting pursuit of God’s fire to ignite Africa and the nations.
Evangelism in the Last Days by T.A. Ralekholela is a powerful and prophetic call to action for Christians in these critical times. With the theme “Multitudes in the Valley of Decision,” this book challenges believers to rise up and share the Gospel with urgency and boldness. Ideal for pastors, evangelists, and anyone passionate about soul-winning, this compelling guide offers biblical insights and inspiration for fulfilling the Great Commission in the end times