Kidnapping of Tennessee Pastor Josh Sullivan in South Africa

Josh Sullivan, a Tennessee pastor, was kidnapped while preaching in South Africa’s Motherwell Township. Masked armed men stole from the congregation and abducted him. Sullivan is a church planting missionary, working with the Xhosa community since 2018. Authorities have formed a task force to investigate, and a ransom has been demanded. His wife has requested ongoing prayers for his safe return.

Tennessee pastor Josh Sullivan was abducted while preaching at the Fellowship Baptist Church in Motherwell Township, South Africa. The incident took place on Thursday when masked armed men entered the church, stole cellphones from congregants, and took Sullivan away in his truck. Local police later recovered the abandoned vehicle in Motherwell, while a ransom has been demanded for his return, as reported by News24.

Sullivan identifies himself as a “church planting missionary to the country of South Africa,” a role involving establishing new congregations. He and his family arrived in South Africa in November 2018 to work with the Xhosa-speaking community. Tom Hatley, Sullivan’s pastor, described the couple’s deep commitment to sharing the gospel with the local population and highlighted Sullivan’s past experiences in youth ministry and teaching.

In a prayer letter dated April 3, Sullivan shared insights from a recent trip to Mozambique and their ministry efforts in Motherwell, mentioning recent baptisms and a plea for support through prayers for the South African community. In response to the kidnapping, law enforcement has initiated a task force to pursue leads and apprehend the kidnappers.

Meagan Witt Sullivan publicly thanked supporters on Facebook and urged continued prayers for Josh’s safe return, expressing gratitude for the outpouring of love and support. The specific ransom amount requested by the kidnappers remains unclear as authorities continue their investigation into the case.

Josh Sullivan’s abduction has garnered attention due to his mission work in South Africa. His commitment to church planting and the local community showcases the vulnerability of missionaries in foreign environments. Law enforcement efforts are being intensified to locate him and address the ransom situation. The support from his family and church community emphasizes the importance of prayer and solidarity during this crisis.

Original Source: www.newsweek.com