A priest from Brakpan in Gauteng has thanked God after his prayers were answered with a Lotto Plus 2 jackpot win worth R7.2 million. He said he had been under immense financial pressure and would now be able to provide for his family and his church.

The lucky man was one of two winners in the Lotto Plus 2 draw on Saturday 24th October, matching the numbers 20, 24, 33, 37, 38 and 49. The jackpot stood at more than R14.4 million – the largest since May – following 15 consecutive rollovers.

Both winners selected their numbers manually rather opting for Quick Picks, and both spent R20 on their tickets. The priest said his windfall had come at the perfect time and he felt very fortunate.

He explained: “I have been praying for God’s intervention for months now, asking him to ease my financial burdens so I can take care of my children and be able to do more for the church.

“My prayers particularly became more intense from July this year, I started feeling a lot of pressure and I ‘fought’ with God, asking him not to forsake me when I have been a loyal servant to him.

“A few days before I played the Lottery, I visited my wife’s grave. I pleaded with her to speak to God on behalf of our family. I believe that she is now a spiritual being who is closer to God than we are. Earlier this week, I went to check my tickets and I was pleasantly shocked to learn that I had won the Lotto Plus 2 jackpot.”

The winner has decided to remain anonymous and is not planning to tell anyone about his new-found wealth apart from his children. He is looking forward to putting the money to good use so it can help those who are important to him.

Asked how he would spend it, he said: “Three things that are at the top of my list are: ensuring my children’s education is paid for and that all their basic needs are taken care of, renovating my parents’ old house, as well as contributing to the church.”

The second winner has also come forward to claim their share of the jackpot. It was revealed to be a woman who bought her ticket in Lichtenburg in the North West of the country. She said she wanted to retire and buy a house, but no other details were disclosed as she intended to keep the news private.

Lotto Plus 2 is played alongside Lotto and Lotto Plus 1 every Wednesday and Saturday night. You have to enter the other two draws to be able to take part. The jackpot can keep growing until it is won and has been known to surpass R30 million.

Check out the main Lottery Results page to see all the latest winning numbers from South Africa’s National Lottery games.