Youth Pastor Arrested on Felony Charges for Alleged Relationship with Minor: Church Leaders Respond.

In Ocala, Florida, a youth pastor, Caleb Ray, 27, was arrested on felony charges after allegations surfaced that he engaged in an unlawful sexual relationship with a minor. The relationship reportedly began years after they first met at church when the minor was 9 years old. According to the arrest report, the minor came forward to law enforcement last month, alleging a six-year grooming period by Ray, which included explicit messaging on Snapchat and escalated to sexual contact at Ray’s home in Gainesville when the minor was 13.

The alleged sexual contact reportedly continued until 2025, when the minor was 17. Following the arrest, Caleb Ray was released on a $150,000 bond. Ocala Police Department is actively investigating the case and has urged anyone with information about inappropriate interactions with Caleb Ray to come forward.

In response to the allegations, Connection Church’s Lead Pastor Jeff Ray issued a statement clarifying that Caleb Ray was never an ordained minister, nor a paid employee of the church, and he is no longer in any leadership position. Despite this, public social media profiles had previously shown a family photograph on Jeff Ray’s Facebook page, tagging Caleb Ray, which raised questions about their relationship. Additionally, records indicate that Caleb Ray maintained three residences in Ocala during the timeframe of the investigation.

This case underscores the importance of accountability and vigilance within church communities to protect the vulnerable. As Micah 6:8 calls for justice, mercy, and walking humbly with God, communities are reminded of their duty to uphold these principles, ensuring that justice is served while caring for those affected.

Source: Read the original report