“I was shocked and happy at the same time. He invited me for a prayer the following night.”

When she got to church she was the only one there.

“He told me to relax and played gospel music. We sat next to the pulpit,” she said.

“He came closer to me while asking about my personal life. I asked him to take me home. I was becoming uncomfortable.”

She said when they got to the door he tried to kiss her.

“He told me he loved me. He said I was in love with him, too.”

He dragged her to the couch next to the pulpit,” she said.

“He overpowered and raped me. I’m shattered, angry and broken. So are my family. I thought church was a safe place, but that’s where I got violated.”

In a series of recorded apologies, he begs for forgiveness!

“Please forgive me. I’m so sorry. I don’t know what to do. I’ve never done this before, especially in church. I can never have peace. I wish you can forgive me.

“You liked being in church and I took advantage of you. I’m sorry. If there’s anything I can do please tell me.”

In an open letter to the church, the pastor claims there was mutual agreement.

“I tried to take full responsibility by apologising when she started feeling bad and guilty. I sinned against God, the church, my wife and even myself and her.

“Out of my own Godly conscience, I hereby step aside from any church responsibilities as an acting pastor.”

He had talked to leaders at the Tshwane headquarters.

“I wish you all the best and will keep on praying for you, whether in jail or not.”