THE MAN WITH THE CROSS
Patrick Styles’ Final Journey Home
Remembering Patrick Styles, South Africa’s Man with the Cross
Rustenburg – South Africa mourns the passing of Patrick Styles (64), known across the nation as “the man with the cross” — a humble believer who carried a wooden cross along countless roads to share the message of God’s love, forgiveness, and salvation.
Patrick’s remarkable journey of faith began in 2010, when a powerful prophecy at his church changed the course of his life. Three years later, in 2013, he told his wife Desiré that he would build a cross and walk with it — not for show, but to call people back to God. His first journey took him from Rustenburg to Potchefstroom, marking the beginning of a decade-long mission that would see him walk through nearly every province of South Africa.
“God was with him every step of the way,” recalls Desiré. “Patrick walked in obedience, praying for revival in our nation and for people to find hope again in Jesus.”
Over the years, Patrick’s cross became a symbol of faith, perseverance, and compassion. He walked through towns and farmlands — from Koster to Cape Town, Carletonville to Mossel Bay, the Karoo, Mpumalanga, the Free State, Pretoria, and even the Cape coast — raising awareness about farm murders, praying for both victims and perpetrators, and declaring that “this land belongs to Jesus.”
Patrick’s message was simple yet profound: “God said, go out and make disciples of all nations. We must return to Him. I pray for the farmers and even for the farm murderers — that God may fill their hearts and turn them away from their evil ways.”
He relied solely on faith — often walking for weeks at a time, sustained by the kindness of strangers and the strength of his calling. His journey inspired thousands online, where he shared prayers and messages that reached far beyond the roads he walked.
Patrick passed away on 13 October 2025 and was laid to rest at the Huis van Gebedsbediening in De Wildt, Hartbeespoort, under Pastor Wally Rheeder. He leaves behind his wife of 27 years, three sons, and seven grandchildren — and a legacy of unwavering faith.
Though Patrick’s earthly steps have stopped, his message continues to echo: “Take up your cross daily and follow Him.”
