The search for an American missionary continues in South Africa after a harrowing incident at a church service in Motherwell, a township near the city of Gqeberha. Josh Sullivan, a pastor from Tennessee, was reportedly kidnapped at gunpoint during the service. The Fellowship Baptist Church in Maryville, Tennessee, where Sullivan is a member, posted on their Facebook page about the abduction. The South African Police Service’s elite Hawks unit is investigating this alleged kidnapping of a local church pastor, believed to be Sullivan. Lt. Gen. Avele Fumba confirmed these reports to ABC News.
The incident occurred around 7 p.m. local time on Thursday when at least four armed suspects barged into the church service and confronted the pastor. Witnesses recounted how the suspects forced the minister into his vehicle and fled the scene. The stolen truck, a silver Toyota 4Runner, was later found abandoned in Motherwell shortly after the kidnapping. A multidisciplinary task team has been activated to locate the victim and bring the perpetrators to justice. Although Fumba did not disclose the name or nationality of the kidnapped pastor, Fellowship Baptist Church identified him as Josh Sullivan and called for prayers for his safe return.
Josh Sullivan’s mother, Tonya Rinker, shared her heartfelt sentiments about her son, revealing his compassionate nature and dedication to his faith. She described him as an exceptional father, husband, and son, highlighting his kindness, strength, and selflessness. Rinker expressed her unwavering faith in her son’s safe return and requested continued prayers for his well-being. The U.S. State Department has acknowledged the reports of a U.S. citizen being kidnapped in South Africa, adding to the gravity of the situation.
According to Sullivan’s website, he has been a church-planting missionary in South Africa since 2018, working with his wife, Meagan, and their children to establish Fellowship Baptist’s Motherwell church. Prior to his mission work in South Africa, Sullivan served on the staff at Fellowship Baptist Church in Maryville starting in 2012. His dedication to his faith and his commitment to serving others are evident in the testimonials from his loved ones and colleagues.
The circumstances surrounding Josh Sullivan’s kidnapping have sparked concern and hope for his safe return. The community in both Tennessee and South Africa is rallying together to support the ongoing search efforts and to provide comfort to Sullivan’s family during this challenging time. The outpouring of prayers and well-wishes demonstrates the impact that Sullivan has had on those around him and the deep concern for his well-being.
As the investigation unfolds and authorities work tirelessly to locate Sullivan and bring the perpetrators to justice, the collective hope and faith of many remain unwavering. The resilience and unity displayed by the community in the face of adversity serve as a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of unwavering faith. The search for Josh Sullivan continues, fueled by prayers, determination, and the shared belief in his safe return to his loved ones.
