US Pastor Abducted During Sermon in South Africa

Josh Sullivan, a U.S. pastor in South Africa, was abducted at gunpoint during a sermon by four armed men. The police have launched an investigation, and the stolen vehicle has been located. Sullivan’s family seeks prayers for his safe return, while social media has shown widespread support.

A distressing incident took place on Thursday evening at the Fellowship Baptist Church in Motherwell Township, South Africa, where a U.S. pastor was abducted at gunpoint. The assailants, four armed and masked men, entered the church during a service, threatened the congregation, stole cellphones from attendees, and forcibly took the pastor while escaping in his vehicle.

The pastor has been identified as 45-year-old Josh Sullivan, a missionary from Tennessee. Although police have yet to officially confirm his identity, local media and online sources corroborate this information. Sullivan and his family relocated to South Africa in November 2018 to undertake church-planting efforts in the area.

Following the incident, authorities initiated a comprehensive investigation. The stolen vehicle, a silver Toyota Fortuner, was discovered abandoned shortly after the abduction. The South African Police Service’s Anti-Gang Unit is currently overseeing the case, with plans to involve a specialized unit should a ransom request emerge.

Tom Hatley, a childhood and training pastor of Sullivan, shared an image of him preaching and urged for prayers from the community for the pastor’s safe return. Concurrently, Sullivan’s mother, Tonya Rinker, expressed her anguish and requested prayers for her son and his family, noting that the U.S. Embassy in South Africa is also participating in the search efforts.

The community has rallied in support, with many expressing their concerns on social media, including messages of hope and prayer for the pastor’s safe release from his captors. It is a grim reminder of the dangerous situations some face in their service and mission work abroad.

In summary, Josh Sullivan, a 45-year-old missionary from Tennessee, was abducted during a church service in South Africa by armed men. The police investigation is ongoing, with community support being mobilized. Sullivan’s family has called for prayers for his safe return, and authorities are taking necessary actions to address the case.

Original Source: www.indiatoday.in