People across the globe have been offering tributes to Andrae Crouch, the world-renowned gospel singer who passed away on Thursday.

Crouch, 72, was hospitalised on January 3 for undisclosed health issues, but it had been hoped he would make a full recovery. He died around 4.30pm yesterday at the Northridge Hospital Medical Centre in the Los Angeles area.

His twin sister, Sandra, released the following statement: "Today my twin brother, womb-mate and best friend went home to be with the Lord. Please keep me, my family and our church family in your prayers. I tried to keep him here but God loved him best."

Among those offering their condolences today was Bishop TD Jakes:

Author of 'God's Not Dead' Rice Broocks also offered a tribute highlighting Crouch's personal Christian faith:

Recording artist Kurt Carr posted photos of himself and Crouch on his Instagram page:

Hundreds of others have also expressed their admiration of Crouch on social media: