US Pastor Abducted at Gunpoint During Sermon in South Africa

On Thursday evening, US missionary Pastor Josh Sullivan was abducted at gunpoint while delivering a sermon at Fellowship Baptist Church in Motherwell Township, South Africa. Four armed men stormed the church, targeting the congregation and stealing cell phones before fleeing with the pastor in his vehicle. Authorities have initiated an investigation, and social media support for Sullivan’s safe return is growing.

A harrowing incident unfolded at the Fellowship Baptist Church in Motherwell Township, South Africa, on Thursday evening. During a sermon, four armed and masked assailants invaded the church, holding the congregation at gunpoint. They stole cell phones from church members before abducting Pastor Josh Sullivan, a 45-year-old missionary from Tennessee, and fleeing in his vehicle, a silver Toyota Fortuner.

Following the disruption, South African police initiated an investigation into the armed robbery and abduction. Shortly after the incident, the stolen vehicle was abandoned in Motherwell. While the authorities have not officially confirmed Pastor Sullivan’s identity, local media and personal online records indicate his involvement.

Pastor Sullivan relocated to South Africa in November 2018 with his wife, Meagan, and their two children to engage in church-planting missionary work in the region. Tom Hatley, a childhood and training pastor for Sullivan, shared a photo of him preaching alongside a call for prayers on social media, emphasizing the need for his safe return.

From Maryville, Tennessee, Sullivan’s mother, Tonya Rinker, publicly shared her distress regarding the incident, urging support for her family and mentioning the active involvement of the US Embassy in South Africa. Captain Andre Beetge of the South African Police Service affirmed that their Anti-Gang Unit has taken charge of the inquiry, indicating that the Hawks, a unit specializing in organized crimes, may assist if a ransom demand arises. Messages of encouragement have flooded social media, with many expressing their hope for Sullivan’s safe release.

The abduction of Pastor Josh Sullivan during a church service in South Africa highlights significant concerns regarding safety and security in the region. As the investigation progresses, the involvement of various police units and the support from the public underscore the urgency of the situation. Community members and family continue to pray for his swift and safe return, reflecting the impact of this incident on both local and international communities.

Original Source: www.indiatoday.in