Search Continues for Kidnapped American Pastor in South Africa

Josh Sullivan, a 35-year-old American pastor, was kidnapped in South Africa while leading a prayer service. The police and Hawks are investigating, emphasizing the safe return of the victim. His family is pleading for prayers, and the Fellowship Baptist Church is facing scrutiny regarding their missionary work. Sullivan’s age was also clarified by his mother amid false reports.

An American pastor from Tennessee, Josh Sullivan, 35, was kidnapped at gunpoint in South Africa last week while on a mission trip, according to reports. He had been residing in South Africa with his wife, Meagan, and their children since 2018, associated with Fellowship Baptist Church in Motherwell. During a prayer service on Thursday evening, armed men stormed the church, taking Sullivan captive and forcing him into his truck, which was later found abandoned nearby.

The South African police, specifically the Hawks, are investigating Sullivan’s abduction, affirming their priority is his safe return. They are encouraging anyone with relevant information to come forward. The U.S. State Department has acknowledged reports regarding the kidnapping and is aware of the situation.

Despite ongoing efforts, Sullivan’s location remains unknown as his family pleads for prayers for his safe return. Tonya Rinker, identified as Sullivan’s mother on Facebook, expressed deep concern and shared her family’s distress over the incident. Rinker clarified Sullivan’s age, correcting misinformation circulating about him being 45, emphasizing he is 35.

The Fellowship Baptist Church has also reached out to its community for prayers, highlighting the situation’s severity in a Facebook post. They faced inquiries, including criticism regarding their missionary efforts. The church responded that their mission is divinely guided, stating, “It is this — because God did and He told us to.”

The ongoing search for Pastor Josh Sullivan underscores the risks associated with missionary work in areas of conflict. His abduction has stirred significant distress among his family and church community, reflecting the urgency of the situation. The thorough investigation by local authorities and cooperative efforts involving the U.S. State Department underline a commitment to ensuring Sullivan’s safe return, while the church’s response highlights the complexities missionaries face in fulfilling their calling amid mounting tensions.

Original Source: www.nbcnews.com