South African pastor Joshua Mhlakela, who previously made headlines after predicting that the Rapture would occur in September 2025, has announced a new date for the event.

Mhlakela, whose previous prediction failed to materialise, now claims that the Rapture will take place between October 12 and 13, 2026.

Mhlakela changes Rapture prediction

Mhlakela previously predicted that the Rapture would occur on September 23, 2025, coinciding with the Jewish Feast of Trumpets.

The prediction attracted widespread attention, with some of his followers reportedly selling their properties, quitting their jobs and making preparations to be taken up to heaven.

When September 23 arrived, some followers reportedly gathered in anticipation, praying and looking towards the sky. However, the predicted event did not occur.

Following the failed prediction, Mhlakela reportedly said the delay was not a mistake but part of God’s plan to give people more time to repent.

Pastor claims his earlier calculation was wrong

Mhlakela has now offered a new explanation for his previous prediction, claiming that his calculation was based on an incorrect understanding of the timing of the biblical Feast of Trumpets.

According to him, the feast had been placed about a month earlier than its “true” date, leading to the September 2025 prediction.

He said additional visions, including one involving two full moons, further convinced him that the biblical calendar had been miscalculated by approximately one month.

Based on his revised interpretation, Mhlakela now believes the Rapture will occur between October 12 and 13, 2026.

The report also notes that the Book of Exodus does not state that the sun was in Aries during the Exodus, raising questions about some of the calculations used to support the prediction.

Christians criticise date-setting

The latest prediction has also attracted criticism from other Christians who argue that attempting to establish a specific date for Jesus Christ’s return contradicts biblical teachings.

Pastor and author Vladimir Savchuk reportedly criticised the practice of setting a specific date for Christ’s return, arguing that Scripture indicates certain events, including the revelation of the Antichrist, must occur before Jesus returns.

What is the Rapture?

The Rapture is a belief held by some Christians that believers will be taken up to Heaven to meet Jesus Christ before a period of intense suffering commonly referred to as the Tribulation.

Mhlakela’s latest prediction has renewed debate over attempts to calculate the timing of the Rapture and whether such predictions are consistent with Christian teachings.

For now, October 12–13, 2026 remains a prediction attributed to Mhlakela and not an established date for the Rapture.