US Pastor Abducted at Gunpoint During Sermon in South Africa
Pastor Josh Sullivan was abducted at gunpoint during a sermon at Fellowship Baptist Church in South Africa. Four armed men threatened the congregation, stole belongings, and took the pastor before fleeing in his vehicle. An investigation is underway, with community support evident for Sullivan’s safe return.
On Thursday evening, a US pastor was abducted at gunpoint during a sermon at the Fellowship Baptist Church in Motherwell Township, South Africa. Four armed, masked men invaded the church mid-service, threatening the congregation and stealing two cellphones from churchgoers before taking 45-year-old Josh Sullivan, a missionary from Tennessee, with them in his vehicle, a silver Toyota Fortuner.
Authorities initiated an investigation into both the armed robbery and abduction shortly after the incident, with the stolen vehicle later discovered abandoned in Motherwell. While the police have not officially confirmed Sullivan’s identity, local media reports and online records link him to the event. He has been in South Africa since November 2018 with his family to serve as a church-planting missionary.
Tom Hatley, identified as Sullivan’s childhood and training pastor, shared a picture of Sullivan preaching on X (formerly Twitter) and called for prayers for his safe return on behalf of Sullivan’s wife, Meagan. In Maryville, Tennessee, Sullivan’s mother, Tonya Rinker, expressed her heartbreak over the incident and also requested prayers for the family.
Captain Andre Beetge of the South African Police Service indicated that the Anti-Gang Unit has assumed responsibility for the investigation. In the event that a ransom is demanded, the case would be referred to the Hawks, which specialize in organized crime. Supportive messages and prayers for Sullivan’s well-being have been shared widely, with one commenter expressing hope for his safe return and for the captors to be transformed.
In summary, the abduction of missionary Josh Sullivan during a church service in South Africa has raised significant concerns within the community and among his family in the United States. The authorities are actively investigating the situation, and public support continues to grow. The involvement of specialized police units emphasizes the serious nature of this incident and the hope for a swift resolution.
Original Source: www.indiatoday.in
