10 notable Christians who died in 2022

By Michael Gryboski, Mainline Church Editor Thursday, December 29, 2022

Ray Bentley – Jan. 4, 2022

Ray Bentley, an author, radio broadcaster and pastor who helped to found the Maranatha Chapel of California, an influential Evangelical megachurch, died of complications from COVID-19 at age 64.

Bentley founded Maranatha Chapel in 1984, with the congregation reportedly growing to approximately 7,000 worshipers on a weekly basis.

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He also had a daily radio program on Maranatha’s Radio Show, was the author of multiple books, and frequently analyzed issues of biblical prophecy and world history.

“He was a shepherd to a global congregation. He loved others with the heart of Jesus and reminded us regularly ‘God is good all the time,’” said Monica Dean, a news anchor at NBC 7 San Diego, whose family was baptized by Bentley.

“I am praying for the comfort and peace of the Bentley family — may the Lord bless and keep you, make His face shine upon you, be gracious to you and give you peace.”