U.S. Pastor Abducted by Gunmen During South Africa Sermon

Pastor Josh Sullivan was kidnapped at gunpoint during a sermon in South Africa, marking an alarming incident of increasing kidnappings for ransom. Despite the presence of his family and church members during the abduction, the suspects seemed familiar with Sullivan, leading to concerns over safety in the region as crime statistics reveal a significant rise in such incidents.

On Thursday, U.S. pastor Josh Sullivan was abducted during a sermon at the Fellowship Baptist Church in Motherwell, South Africa, according to local police and colleagues. This incident is suspected to be a kidnapping for ransom, highlighting a troubling trend of increased abductions in the region.

The police reported that four armed and masked suspects entered the church, robbed two attendees of their cell phones, and subsequently forced Pastor Sullivan, aged 45, to leave with them. Rev. Jeremy Hall remarked that the abduction was likely financially motivated.

Pastor Sullivan was conducting a prayer meeting with about 30 attendees, including his family, at the time of the incident. Witnesses stated that the kidnappers seemed to know him personally, and they forced him into his car before fleeing the scene. His car was later found abandoned approximately one mile from the church.

Sullivan moved to South Africa from Tennessee with his family in November 2018, intending to complete language training and establish a church for the Xhosa-speaking population. His long-standing ties to the Fellowship Baptist Church in Maryville, Tennessee, since February 2012, underline his commitment to missionary work. The church has requested prayers for his safe return.

The rise of kidnappings in South Africa continues to be alarming, with over 17,000 cases recorded in the 2023-2024 financial year, reflecting an 11 percent increase from the previous year. Alongside this, the country struggles with significant gun violence, averaging 33 gun-related deaths daily, as reported by Gun Free South Africa, a nonprofit organization.

Pastor Josh Sullivan’s abduction underscores the rising trend of kidnappings for ransom in South Africa. As he was targeted during a church service, this incident places a spotlight on safety concerns within the region. The overall increase in kidnappings, compounded by rampant gun violence, illustrates the pressing need for community awareness and protective measures in South Africa.

Original Source: www.cbsnews.com