Pastor Josh Sullivan’s Resilience: From Kidnapping to Vols Support

Pastor Josh Sullivan, kidnapped in South Africa, was rescued unharmed after a week. Upon returning, he was notably upset about the departure of Nico from the University of Tennessee football team. Fellowship Baptist Church’s Pastor Tom Hatley shared insights about Sullivan’s deep roots in Tennessee football and expressed hopes for a remarkable game-day experience for him.

Pastor Josh Sullivan, serving in Maryville, was recently rescued from a harrowing kidnapping ordeal in South Africa. He was abducted at gunpoint while delivering a sermon and held captive for nearly a week. His dramatic rescue involved a shootout that resulted in the deaths of three kidnappers, but Pastor Sullivan emerged without injuries.

Upon his safe return, Sullivan reunited with his family and connected with acquaintances back in East Tennessee. Pastor Tom Hatley from Fellowship Baptist Church reported that during these initial conversations, one significant topic emerged: Sullivan was quite distressed about the departure of Nico from the University of Tennessee football team. Members of Sullivan’s community aimed to lighten the mood and mentioned this news shortly after his release.

Hatley expressed that Sullivan, a dedicated fan of the Volunteers, spent some of his first moments post-rescue discussing Nico, the former quarterback who entered the transfer portal. Hatley even suggested that if Coach Josh Heupel and Athletic Director Danny White are listening, they should arrange a special occasion for Sullivan, such as allowing him to participate in a game-day ceremony as a token of appreciation for his resilience and devotion to the team.

While Pastor Hatley hopes for such an opportunity for Sullivan, he also expressed gratitude for the overwhelming prayers and support provided during the challenging week of uncertainty surrounding the abduction.

Pastor Josh Sullivan’s ordeal highlights significant themes of resilience and community spirit. After being kidnapped in South Africa, Sullivan’s first thoughts upon release were about the University of Tennessee football team, particularly the recent news regarding quarterback Nico. His friends and family have shown immense support, and there are hopes for a memorable stadium experience for him, reflecting the love and dedication of his local community during a troubling time.

Original Source: www.wvlt.tv